I have the bug!

[Varelco]

Yeah with Spektrum radio gear you have ModelMatch. Any model labelled BNF (Bind and Fly) or has a spektrum receiver/satellite fitted, can be connected to a Spektrum radio, such as the DX6i.

[tomatwalden]

Thanks guys for the advise so far. I am looking at the 130x along with the Dx6i One question though does the Dx6i work with most heli's?

Paul

Hey Paul - as per my other post - I would suggest you research the 130x carefully before considering it as a first heli. Personally, I don't believe it truly is beginner friendly. It's a great heli, and I love mine - but take a good look at the Blade 120SR. It's the same size as a 130X, and from the same company (Blade). However, for learning the basics, and getting you past the first few hops into the air - it's a ton more forgiving! The mSRX is another possibility in the same vein.

There's a lot to be said with taking careful steps in this hobby and not scaring yourself off by starting with an advanced heli.

If you're pretty into the hobby mind - the DX6i transmitter is a very sound idea. It'll stand you in good stead for a while and has a 10-model memory so will be all you'll need for quite a while. It works with the mSRx, 120SR, 130X, etc. etc. - in fact, anything with a Spektrum brand receiver in it.

HTH. Tom

[Rich_H]

Welcome to the Forum Paul!

Helis are unquestionably THE most rewarding aspect of the RC Hobby, particularly if you strive to fly them well. Financially Helis can be a massive drain on resource lol so forwarn the mrs! It all depends on how far you want to take it. Above all make sure you enjoy the ride even though at times you will seriousy consider what the hell you got yourself into!

If you do want to start flying a more serious heli (one with collective pitch) my advice would be to invest in a reasonable Transmitter, something like a DX6i or better if you can afford it and a simulator , Phoenix sim is one of the better ones. Although no substitute for the 'real thing' this will allow you to progress quickly and save you a small fortune in inevitable crashes. you will need the TX as you move to more serious helis anyway so its not money wasted. when youve outgrown in, sell it on eBay.

If possible find a local Heli club, go along and chat to the other members, see what you are letting yourself in for. Advice of others is absolutely invaluable.

Right, thats about the next 18 months or so of your life iv'e just mapped for you...

Any questions please ask, everyone here is really helpful!

Cheers!

Rich

[pjos11]

Thanks again guys

[tomatwalden]

O I see got it now The transmitter is a 6 channel. Is the 130x hard to fly? I got the hang of the S107 which is 3 channel. (most of the time )
...

I think it tells you something that the manufacturer website lists the 130x in the "expert" section! A bit of marketing licence, I grant you, but certainly a fair old way away from a beginner machine.

Helis: Blade - #1 By Design

PS. I started with the 120SR which I found right for me. A mate of mine started on the mSRX which is pretty solid too for a beginner machine.

[pjos11]

Does anyone know who sells the Blade 120sr? Apart from Ebay

[tomatwalden]

loads of places do the Blade range. This lot have the 120SR and mSRX (as well as 130x etc.)

T

Traditional Style - E-Flite - Electric Helicopters - Helicopters | Midland Helicopters Ltd
Beginner Helicopters
Fast Lad Performance
Helicopter Kits - Planes & Helis

[pjos11]

I think this is the one to go for Can you tell me what batteries it takes? And for it to work with the Dx6i I would need the BNF version? Nearly sorted I think

[That Guy]

Kings Lynn Model Shop

Do some of the best prices on the Dx6i and 130x and many other Blade heli's. Good service to

[tomatwalden]

I think this is the one to go for Can you tell me what batteries it takes? And for it to work with the Dx6i I would need the BNF version? Nearly sorted I think

You can either get the BNF version and buy a (mode 2) DX6i separately, or Kings Lynn do a combo offer :
E-Flite Blade 120 SR / DX6i Special Mode 2

The battery is a 1-cell 3.7v LIPO - it comes with one (even with BNF verion) : eg. Blade 120 SR battery type 3.7v Lipo 550 mAh 20C discharge | Overlander Batteries

[pjos11]

Happy days I am sorted. Tomorrow I will buy the Blade120sr and the DX6i with a couple of batteries Regarding spares I am confused but in time I will know what I need!

Paul

[owend]

As (yet another) older starter, can I suggest a co-axial for the first few weeks? I got a Blade mCX2, go for the kit with a DX6i and you're set for the transmitter as well for a year or so at least, I think. The mCX2 is quite docile, but it's sturdy and it's taught me the basics without maiming any furniture, pets or humans and it's good inside in small rooms through winter! I think docile is good, as you get older it takes longer for you to get the right stick movements instinctively (the "muscle memory" people talk about) - I don't know how long yet, I'm getting better after a couple of months but a way to go still!

And I'd agree with getting a sim - I think it's harder to fly than the real thing, so when I can master the sim I'll be fully confident! Also, King's Lynn Model Shop - my local so I may be biased, but helpful, friendly and good prices. Hope that all helps rather than just muddying the waters!

Owen

[450man]

I am another recent newbie and can I add my recommendation for YOU...

- DX6i
I cannot recommend this transmitter highly enough for anyone who is thinking of taking up radio control flying. It can store the settings of 10 models and has many of the programming facilities that will make your life and learning much easier. It also means that you can take advantage of many of the BNF (Bind and Fly) options now available. BNF models don't come with a transmitter leaving you to use your DX6i making it much cheaper. It also means you only even need one transmitter regardless of how many models you have.

- Blade 120 SR is a great fixed pitch heli which will take you from the coaxial heli you already have on towards flying bigger CP (collect pitch) helis. I have now started flying CP helis but still enjoy flying the 120 SR. Once you can fly the 120 SR you will be ready to move on to a CP heli such as the MCPX, Nano CPX or if you prefer on to a bigger CP heli.

- Get a sim.
There are a few good ones to choose from. I have Phoenix and I am very happy with that but there are others that people say are equally as good or better. Whatever you spend it will saveyou that in repairs and also help you make much faster progress.

- I can recommend Midlan Helicopters as a good online heli shop for all heli stuff or even better, find your local hobby shop and see what they have for you.

I am certainly no expert and have only been flying a few months but this advice I got from others and it has served me well.

[pjos11]

Just realised King Lynn Model shop does not deliver to N Ireland ! Bum.. ON Fast-lads.co.uk they sell two models of transmitter Mode 1 and Mode 2?

What is the difference and which is needed for the Blade 120sr BNF please?

Paul

[tomatwalden]

I have the bug!

Just realised King Lynn Model shop does not deliver to N Ireland ! Bum.. ON Fast-lads.co.uk they sell two models of transmitter Mode 1 and Mode 2?

What is the difference and which is needed for the Blade 120sr BNF please?

Paul

Get mode 2 as its what most (>90%) use. The different modes describe which stick functions do what. Mode 2 is power and rudder in the left stick with cyclic ( elevator / aileron ) in the right stick.