FlySky NB4+ Radio

[CJSRCLIFE]

I agree. The rtr radios and the DX4C I own from Spektrum lead me to believe that a more expensive radio from them will also feel cheap and flimsy in my hands.
Low dollar Futaba don't feel cheap and flimsy to me. Like I would expect to get at least the same or better quality as the price gets higher.
I'm not sure what to expect from Flysky but I trust the ppl here who give it positive reviews WAY more than any Youfool.com reviewer with ANY brand.

I considered my 4PM to be a more expensive mid range radio until i got my DX6C which feels like brick super solid and not flimsy. I had a DX3C one and it felt like a cheap radio although it's from 2011 - 2012 but my DX6C doesn't feel like that it started to make my 4PM feel cheap imo. A friend of mine recently bought an iXSR and he loves it so far he says it runs super smooth and feels high end it also runs amazing. I guess every one has they're own experience with certain brands.

 

[CertifiedMike]

I considered my 4PM to be a more expensive mid range radio until i got my DX6C which feels like brick super solid and not flimsy. I had a DX3C one and it felt like a cheap radio although it's from 2011 - 2012 but my DX6C doesn't feel like that it started to make my 4PM feel cheap imo. A friend of mine recently bought an iXSR and he loves it so far he says it runs super smooth and feels high end it also runs amazing. I guess every one has they're own experience with certain brands.

My DX4C radio IS old. The rtr stuff is new though. I know not to expect much from an rtr system but it IS the first experience most ppl will have with an rc transmitter.
Improving the radio 'feel' in rtr would go a long way in favor of Spektrum for me. I don't imagine another $3 in better fitting plastic and a couple extra screws would break Horizon Hobby.
I do admit though, my hands are BIG.
I need a large grip controller or it feels toyish to me.
Wrapping the grip with tape is a sticky, messy and poor solution imo.
We are all fussy and have our own needs. We are lucky to have as many choices as we do.
I don't think there will ever be 1 radio that suits every person. I think the flexibility of the RadioMaster is amazing. I feel like that is really more radio than I will ever be able to outgrow.
The plug and play of the NB4 is very attractive though.
I am busy with restos etc... not sure how much time and energy I have to put in to 'a steep learning curve'.
Others have said though, for basic functions (like I need), the RadioMaster is pretty easy to set up. The prices of the RadioMaster parts, upgrades, recievers etc are CHEAP!!!
Costly receivers are one of the things I DON'T like about Futaba.
LOTS to consider with transmitter purchases!

 

[Panther6834]

I know there has already been plenty of inputs...but, thought it might be worth adding my "two cents". First, regarding the MT12, which has been mentioned by several others, it is a great radio, but also has a very steep learning curve. If you don't want to have to deal with programming, and just prefer a more traditional RC radio, it is best to avoid this one.

That said, over the past dozen or so years, I have personally use several radios from Futaba, Spektrum, Traxxas, Radiolink, and FlySky. To be completely honest, when it comes to surface radios, I have found the FlySky Noble radios to not only provide the BEST "bang for the buck", but also to be one of the absolute best radios I have ever used. Unlike all of the other FlySky radios, which I would mostly classify as "lower-end" (except for the just-released G11P, which I would consider a "lower mid-range"), I'd place the Noble line of radios (NB4 & Pro, which have more recently been replaced by the NB4+ & Pro+) as either the highest end of "mid-range" radios, or the lower end of "high-end" radios.

Looking at the materials used, they are definitely more premium than the plastic you find in low-end, or even most mid-range, radios, and the quality is definitely high-end. Also, having the touch screen puts it in line with the "best of the best" from all other brands. On top of all of that, when you look into the features, functions, buttons, etc, this is definitely equal to the best of the high-end radios. Truth be told, for the past few months, I have seriously been considering selling my Futaba 7:00px, and all Futaba receivers, and replacing them with a second FlySky Noble NB4+.

 

[PewPewChris]

I have the noble nb4+, only using it for my couple of mini-z's at the moment, but from what I can tell, good quality build, great interface, plenty of customization and has worked great for me.

 

[RustyUs]

I agree. The rtr radios and the DX4C I own from Spektrum lead me to believe that a more expensive radio from them will also feel cheap and flimsy in my hands.
Low dollar Futaba don't feel cheap and flimsy to me. Like I would expect to get at least the same or better quality as the price gets higher.
I'm not sure what to expect from Flysky but I trust the ppl here who give it positive reviews WAY more than any Youfool.com reviewer with ANY brand.

That is a line I'd use in everyday communications with other humans

 

[slw2206]

I have the noble nb4+, only using it for my couple of mini-z's at the moment, but from what I can tell, good quality build, great interface, plenty of customization and has worked great for me.

Everything I've heard says I think I'll like this choice; and at this price point I can afford to bring my son along with the same gear too.

I may like other radio systems "better" but with some of their price points I really don't think I'd want to buy them twice!

 

[RustyUs]

Long Term Use

....Looking at the materials used, they are definitely more premium than the plastic you find in low-end, or even most mid-range, radios, and the quality is definitely high-end. Also, having the touch screen puts it in line with the "best of the best" from all other brands. On top of all of that, when you look into the features, functions, buttons, etc, this is definitely equal to the best of the high-end radios. Truth be told, for the past few months, I have seriously been considering selling my Futaba 7:00px, and all Futaba receivers, and replacing them with a second FlySky Noble NB4+.

I've considered getting another FlySky Noble to replace a couple other radios. I know for sure when my "old faithful" Futaba 3PM starts doing weird things which radio is atop my wish list.

I've been down the road with FlySky radios having a potentiometer crap out within three months. I don't do anything special when it comes to storage of my gear. Outside in the dust... put on shelf in garage when done 365 days of the year. I'm hoping FlySky didn't cheap out on their pots. That's one of my fears as the original (2019) NB4 radios have not reach long term usage reviews yet. To me, 10 years is long term.

 

[nino]

Pots are available and replaceable for most radios, so while it's an inconvenience, it's not a deal breaker for me.
Good pots cost money, I used to buy ALPS for my DIY hi-fi gear... Some of them cost more than a whole low end radio

 

[CertifiedMike]

Pots are available and replaceable for most radios, so while it's an inconvenience, it's not a deal breaker for me.
Good pots cost money, I used to buy ALPS for my DIY hi-fi gear... Some of them cost more than a whole low end radio

ALPS made THE best pots in audio!!!

 

[DavidB1126]

I got pots and pans in the kitchen. They seem pretty well built.

 

[Littlemotor]

Well according to this thread; I’m a Futaba/Sanwa “elitist”….

I say FlySky Noble NB4+ allllllll day.. For what you’re looking to do, it’s absolutely not even up for discussion imo.. If I had to buy a radio TODAY, it’d be that one. No contest. For what it includes, ease of use right out of the box, bells & whistles, etc., it absolutely can’t be beat. Good luck, and HAVE FUN’

 

[slw2206]

Well it's here. Definitely a step up in quality from the TQi included with the XRT. Part of me just wants to order my son one now and not put him through the hassle of using a TQi at all (the good dad in me knows he'll appreciate it more when he has to struggle and then install the better solution himself).

2 things strike me right off the bat:

1) There's no instruction manual. Call me old school but I like sitting down with the manual and reading all about my new toy. I'm sure there's a digital version out there that I'll go find in a minute, but I can't turn the page on my phone

2) The receiver unit is TINY. Last night I pulled out my old HPI NMT to show my son how a nitro truck worked. I have a Novak RX on that, which in 1999 was a tiny and powerful receiver. This FlySky Rx has to be a 3rd of the volume. If they'd change the pin connector style I'm sure it could very way smaller too!

I do like how the steering wheel rotates 180 degrees. I've found 2 positions so far that are comfortable and its great that on longer runs I could change the angle set and still be comfortable.

One BIG PROBLEM! My son is home from school today, and since he can't know there's a new RC in the house yet I can't play with my new toy until tomorrow! I asked my wife if I could just give him his XRT early (his bday is 5/17 so it's only 50 days early) and her response was I never get to buy him special gifts again, as I'm horrible as keeping them secret

So... I'm off to find that online manual and wait until tomorrow so I can install the Rx and actually use this thing!

 

[CertifiedMike]

Well it's here. Definitely a step up in quality from the TQi included with the XRT. Part of me just wants to order my son one now and not put him through the hassle of using a TQi at all (the good dad in me knows he'll appreciate it more when he has to struggle and then install the better solution himself).

2 things strike me right off the bat:

1) There's no instruction manual. Call me old school but I like sitting down with the manual and reading all about my new toy. I'm sure there's a digital version out there that I'll go find in a minute, but I can't turn the page on my phone

2) The receiver unit is TINY. Last night I pulled out my old HPI NMT to show my son how a nitro truck worked. I have a Novak RX on that, which in 1999 was a tiny and powerful receiver. This FlySky Rx has to be a 3rd of the volume. If they'd change the pin connector style I'm sure it could very way smaller too!

I do like how the steering wheel rotates 180 degrees. I've found 2 positions so far that are comfortable and its great that on longer runs I could change the angle set and still be comfortable.

One BIG PROBLEM! My son is home from school today, and since he can't know there's a new RC in the house yet I can't play with my new toy until tomorrow! I asked my wife if I could just give him his XRT early (his bday is 5/17 so it's only 50 days early) and her response was I never get to buy him special gifts again, as I'm horrible as keeping them secret

So... I'm off to find that online manual and wait until tomorrow so I can install the Rx and actually use this thing!

There MUST be an arcade or friend's house...
The suspense...

 

[slw2206]

There MUST be an arcade or friend's house...
The suspense...

It's not fair, why do kids have to get in the way of playing with my toys

 

[CJSRCLIFE]

Well it's here. Definitely a step up in quality from the TQi included with the XRT. Part of me just wants to order my son one now and not put him through the hassle of using a TQi at all (the good dad in me knows he'll appreciate it more when he has to struggle and then install the better solution himself).

2 things strike me right off the bat:

1) There's no instruction manual. Call me old school but I like sitting down with the manual and reading all about my new toy. I'm sure there's a digital version out there that I'll go find in a minute, but I can't turn the page on my phone

2) The receiver unit is TINY. Last night I pulled out my old HPI NMT to show my son how a nitro truck worked. I have a Novak RX on that, which in 1999 was a tiny and powerful receiver. This FlySky Rx has to be a 3rd of the volume. If they'd change the pin connector style I'm sure it could very way smaller too!

I do like how the steering wheel rotates 180 degrees. I've found 2 positions so far that are comfortable and its great that on longer runs I could change the angle set and still be comfortable.

One BIG PROBLEM! My son is home from school today, and since he can't know there's a new RC in the house yet I can't play with my new toy until tomorrow! I asked my wife if I could just give him his XRT early (his bday is 5/17 so it's only 50 days early) and her response was I never get to buy him special gifts again, as I'm horrible as keeping them secret

So... I'm off to find that online manual and wait until tomorrow so I can install the Rx and actually use this thing!

TQi's aren't that bad especially if you get the bluetooth module for them but one thing i will say if you swap out the TQi in the XRT for a Flysky or what receiver you plan to go with. Is trim off the slot on the esc, servo and fan leads with a hobby knife or razor since they won't fit otherwise i did that to my X-Maxx and it works perfect. Also the manual section on Traxxas is broken right now. Here's one from Amain.
https://images.amainhobbies.com/ima...086-4_Traxxas_XRT_8S_Monster_Truck_Manual.pdf

 

[slw2206]

TQi's aren't that bad especially if you get the bluetooth module for them but one thing i will say if you swap out the TQi in the XRT for a Flysky or what receiver you plan to go with. Is trim off the slot on the esc, servo and fan leads with a hobby knife or razor since they won't fit otherwise i did that to my X-Maxx and it works perfect. Also the manual section on Traxxas is broken right now. Here's one from Amain.
https://images.amainhobbies.com/ima...086-4_Traxxas_XRT_8S_Monster_Truck_Manual.pdf

The TQi bluetooth module did look like it added a decent amount of functionality. While that may be a good option, I like to jump in head first with upgrades. The TQi had some weak points that needed addressed so instead of upgrading the TQi it seemed easier to just bite the bullet and put a "final solution" radio in place now.

I did find the manual for the NB4 and am busy reading. Won't get out to the workbench today, but maybe tomorrow or Thursday will see this all installed!

 

[CJSRCLIFE]

The TQi bluetooth module did look like it added a decent amount of functionality. While that may be a good option, I like to jump in head first with upgrades. The TQi had some weak points that needed addressed so instead of upgrading the TQi it seemed easier to just bite the bullet and put a "final solution" radio in place now.

I did find the manual for the NB4 and am busy reading. Won't get out to the workbench today, but maybe tomorrow or Thursday will see this all installed!

I once had a TQi with the BT module but never used it in the end i swapped it out for a Futaba receiver back when i used to run Futaba before becoming a Spektrum guy. Although here's some advice from me to you from what i've learned after owning a couple X-Maxx's if you go with an aftermarket radio make sure to take off the telemetry wires off the motor heatsink that are heat taped on. If you decide to sell the old radio make sure those wires go with it, Hope the radio swap goes well for you and your son. I'm a little jealous your son's gonna get an XRT for his birthday i wish someone would get me the iXSR or a T-Maxx\Revo 3.3 for my next birthday. Although they're way out of my dad and stepmom's price range.

 

[slw2206]

Well she's installed and working. The signal drop that I had with the TQi is instantly gone!

2 questions for those in the know:

1) There was no antenna wire coming out of the FlySky receiver, I'm hoping that's by design? There is a little "ANT" designatornwith an arrow. I'm guessing that means they built the antenna into the PCB?

2) The standard Traxxas wiring had some pieces above and beyond the regular channels. Theres a red and grey connector in the pic below, it appears the red connector is a jumper off the grey. These things arent "necessary" for the truck to work but I'm sure they're not in there because Joey at Traxxas got bored when he assembled my XTR
Any ideas on how I should wire these?

 

[Lostinthewoods86]

Well she's installed and working. The signal drop that I had with the TQi is instantly gone!

2 questions for those in the know:

1) There was no antenna wire coming out of the FlySky receiver, I'm hoping that's by design? There is a little "ANT" designatornwith an arrow. I'm guessing that means they built the antenna into the PCB?

2) The standard Traxxas wiring had some pieces above and beyond the regular channels. Theres a red and grey connector in the pic below, it appears the red connector is a jumper off the grey. These things arent "necessary" for the truck to work but I'm sure they're not in there because Joey at Traxxas got bored when he assembled my XTR
Any ideas on how I should wire these?
View attachment 230428View attachment 230430View attachment 230431

The red and grey are the voltage and temp sensor wires for the Traxxas telemetry setup.

 

[slw2206]

The red and grey are the voltage and temp sensor wires for the Traxxas telemetry setup.

Gotcha, I have the voltage working but not the temp. Will have to see if I can do that or if I really even need/want to.