Newbie to Rotary winged RC. Buying my first Helo and narrowed it down to 3 so far.

[PsiFox]

Hi all

After many years on nitro Monster trucks and prior to that hill soaring RC gliders. I'm looking to move to rotary winged craft.

I have 3 options I'm currently considering

TREX 450 Plus RTF

E-Flite Blade 450 3D RTF

and Helivol Interceptor 400 with Alien Command.

The latter 2 with Spektrum kit, the TREX with rebranded Futaba .

Will also be buying Phoenix to assist in learning process.

All thoughts and comments on assumed stupidity welcome.

[SamS]

I'd say buy the Blade 450X RTF, it may be classed as a 3D heli, but it can be tamed down to fly like a pussy cat. You'll get a DX6i which is included an is more than adequate.

[tomatwalden]

I'd say buy the Blade 450X RTF, it may be classed as a 3D heli, but it can be tamed down to fly like a pussy cat. You'll get a DX6i which is included an is more than adequate.

Have to say, much as I love my 450X - I think it's coming under stiff competition now that Align have brought out a DFC (flybarless) 450 in RTF format.

T-REX 450 PLUS DFC (Pre Order) RH45E02XT - Helicopter Kits Align T-Rex 450 align trex 450 Sport - ALIGN-TREX.co.uk

As to the OP however, I would suggest you consider getting an MCPX or 130X. These are fully capable machines that cheaper, will crash without damage 9 times out of 10, and can be picked up pretty cheap 2nd hand if you look around.

T

[PsiFox]

Thanks for the prompt response SamS

[PsiFox]

Have to say, much as I love my 450X - I think it's coming under stiff competition now that Align have brought out a DFC (flybarless) 450 in RTF format.

T-REX 450 PLUS DFC (Pre Order) RH45E02XT - Helicopter Kits Align T-Rex 450 align trex 450 Sport - ALIGN-TREX.co.uk

As to the OP however, I would suggest you consider getting an MCPX or 130X. These are fully capable machines that cheaper, will crash without damage 9 times out of 10, and can be picked up pretty cheap 2nd hand if you look around.

T

As I understand it (very little really) flybarless whilst giving more precise control input response does make it harder for learners to achieve stability, or, am I completely mistaken

thanks for the suggestions on the other models, however I have set my heart on something a bit larger. Yes I'm sure it will need repairs often, but the parts still seem quite reasonable in price.

I also look forward to the strip and rebuild process as a way of learning.

[PKNEC]

Well I would go Align I think the package is damn good value for money for starting out in the hobby.
The futaba system is less prone to glitches and the 450 very upgradeable.
Just my opinion though!
Oh! and Welcome to the mad house

[tomatwalden]

I'd say buy the Blade 450X RTF, it may be classed as a 3D heli, but it can be tamed down to fly like a pussy cat. You'll get a DX6i which is included an is more than adequate.

In fact, the Blade 450X only comes in BNF format. Nothing stopping you buying a DX6i separately mind ....

[PKNEC]

As I understand it (very little really) flybarless whilst giving more prcise control input response does make it harder for learners to achieve stability, or, am I completely mistaken

I believe it's the other way around it would be easier to control while learning as the electronics are helping you out,so to speak.
But I was advised to go flybar first and learn basic collective management skills unaided (no electronics) you can still tame the machines down so they are not a handfull and once you have mastered the art move on to flybarless.
Then maybe I am just old school

[PsiFox]

I was looking at the 450 3D RTF with the DX6i included.

[PsiFox]

As I understand it (very little really) flybarless whilst giving more prcise control input response does make it harder for learners to achieve stability, or, am I completely mistaken

I believe it's the other way around it would be easier to control while learning as the electronics are helping you out,so to speak.
But I was advised to go flybar first and learn basic collective management skills unaided (no electronics) you can still tame the machines down so they are not a handfull and once you have mastered the art move on to flybarless.
Then maybe I am just old school

I'm just old OKjust makes the choice a little harder then.

One question re the Align 450 PLUS DFC? Reading the specs am I right that it needs a gyro added to that package as not included as standard, or did I miss it?

Thanks all

[tomatwalden]

I was looking at the 450 3D RTF with the DX6i included.

Which is what I bought too! That said, I progressed a lot quicker when I bought an mcpx to go with it ... It's difficult to foresee trends, but flybarless does seem to be taking over these days ....

[tomatwalden]

Which is what I bought too! That said, I progressed a lot quicker when I bought an mcpx to go with it ... It's difficult to foresee trends, but flybarless does seem to be taking over these days ....

oh, and one final thought. In my personal opinions, all the suggestions here are pretty much spot-on. Ultimately, we're all different, and what works for one, may not be right for others. Choose your path based on what feels right for you (from the suggestions here! ) .

Best of luck! - and Welcome!

[tomatwalden]

I'm just old OKjust makes the choice a little harder then.

One question re the Align 450 PLUS DFC? Reading the specs am I right that it needs a gyro added to that package as not included as standard, or did I miss it?

Thanks all

Flybarless systems don't need individual gyros. That's in effect how they work - they have one unit with 3 gyros in it - one for rudder, one for pitch, and one for aileron. Hence no flybar required.

[PsiFox]

Flybarless systems don't need individual gyros. That's in effect how they work - they have one unit with 3 gyros in it - one for rudder, one for pitch, and one for aileron. Hence no flybar required.

Added to internal database. Thanks.

[tomatwalden]

No probs. Take a read of this : Understanding Flybarless RC Helicopters

There's a good summary of the argument for a flybar when you're a beginner. Bear in mind though - again, it's one guy's opinion.