Good Radio

[djdoug99]

Hi there,
I currently run my 1/10 scale with an Airtronics MX-3. I am not happy with this radio. Whenever I go racing, the radio will just die on me in the middle of a heat, then work 5 minutes later (probably some interference). I am looking for a radio for my new 1/8 scale that is yet to arrive in the mail. I will probably be looking to spend around $200 on a radio, any suggestions?

 

[Rolex]

For 200 you can get the JR XS3 pro. Computer radio, spektrum module. No more crystals.
269 gets you the Airtronics M11. You might want to look into that.

 

[scoobydoo2u]

I know nothing about the radio that Rolex is talking about, although He has been known for quality information.

I use a DX 2.0 radio and it amazing!

It may not have quite the audience or functions as the upper class radios, but I love it!

Oh, and I don't us this radio for racing, but I believe it very well could be used for a decent racing radio.

 

[Rolex]

I know nothing about the radio that Rolex is talking about, although He has been known for quality information.

LOL....Now THAT'S quality information from the Scooby Dude.

I bought both those radios in the last few months, and if I had to recommend only one of them, I'd be stumped. Both really great.

Do what I did, take your time checking out a lot of radios on the net. Somewhere in there you'll get an idea what you want them to do, and what your budget can handle. Remember, you'll have it for quite a while if you get a good one. Don't get one that will annoy you due to lack of usefull features.
Remember also, that a lot of them are available with or without servos, and that's an extra expense you might not need.

 

[HeartBreak]

I'll add one for the M11. I have its' predecessor, the M8, and wouldn't trade it for the world. Its' been very reliable, and hasn't glitched on me once. I paid about $350 for it back when they first came out, so $270 for the M11 isn't a bad price at all.

The JR radios, on the other hand, I've seen many break the return springs in the wheel. This was about 6 years ago, so they may have long-since addressed the issues.

 

[djdoug99]

I'll add one for the M11. I have its' predecessor, the M8, and wouldn't trade it for the world. Its' been very reliable, and hasn't glitched on me once. I paid about $350 for it back when they first came out, so $270 for the M11 isn't a bad price at all.

The JR radios, on the other hand, I've seen many break the return springs in the wheel. This was about 6 years ago, so they may have long-since addressed the issues.

Thanks guys, the M11 does look promising. I suppose in general 2.4Ghz is the way to go?

 

[jon2]

Thanks guys, the M11 does look promising. I suppose in general 2.4Ghz is the way to go?

You may want to look into the M11 with the FHSS( Spektrum band )

Or you can look more into the Spektrum line of radios.

I recommend a spektrum radio. You will get a Built-In Failsafe and the free band of spektrum. I have yet to be at a function or hear of one where you can not run due to the channels being taken.

 

[djdoug99]

Just Curious, if the radio and receiver aren't using a crystal, how do they form a relationship?

 

[vbgagnon]

It uses the same technology as the wireless phone in your house, once you bind them they work great. I've got spektrum with my m8 and it works great!

 

[beason]

i had the mx3 for a few years and never ever had a problem with it.. the only reason i sold it is because i got a sensor. airtronics is the only high end radio i have owned (besides the nomadio) but they make some quality stuff. I'm with rolex (wipes stuff off nose) everyone is different and there are many radios to chose from. if you can get to a hobby shop and hold them that would be helpfull to, make sure it fits your hand and isnt to heavy.

 

[olds97_lss]

I've been using the MX-3 for about 5 years... the only shortcoming it has is I periodically get glitches in my servos and the range is only about 100 yards cleanly.

I like the MX3 due to all the things it shows you on the screen all the time. Few radios show that much info all at once. At least few that are under $200.

I'll be looking at the MX-3FHSS when I get a bit of change in my pocket. At $180, it's a pretty sweet radio, at least it would be for me. The only downside is that the receivers are $90 a piece and I need 3 total to run all my rigs. But, I'm pretty sure that would suck regardless what new radio I bought.

 

[Rolex]

Here's a review and some good pics of the M11:

http://www.oople.com/rc/photos/m11/

 

[Cupooterluvr]

Dang, that's a nice one. Might have to get one for the TMaxx. What all does it show on the display?

 

[Rolex]

Dang, that's a nice one. Might have to get one for the TMaxx. What all does it show on the display?

Absolutely everything, including your own name. Not only does it run the numerical settings, but also graphs. Like anything new, it seems confusing at first, but once you have the basics down it's just amazing.
You can change the height of the control to suit your hand, and even flip it for left handed use.

I haven't checked yet, but it probably gets XM radio and HDTV also. Point is, there's not much it won't do.

 

[frickenjoey]

I haven't checked yet, but it probably gets XM radio and HDTV also. Point is, there's not much it won't do.

Sorry Rolex I checked it is not HD compatable....however I did use it to replace my Tivo. I have never heard ANYTHING bad about it at all. Also if you pull that thing out at the track it looks like you mean serious bizness.

 

[Rolex]

I've had well over a dozen radios between ground frequency and plane and heli radios, and this is the only one that everyone asks about when they see it.

My first comment is always, "Be afraid. Be VERY afraid."

I've also been known to put the wheel to my ear and carry on a conversation.

 

[frickenjoey]

I've also been known to put the wheel to my ear and carry on a conversation.

That's a good one.....that would be too funny for you to be running then all of a sudden pull over and talk to your controller....sure honey I'll pick-up eggs on the way home.....

 

[sweetdiesel]

If you end up considering a high end TX, also take a look at the Futaba 3PK and the soon to be released 4PK. They both have the same functionality and adjustments of the M11, but a much different feel and weight distribution. Another very nice TX is the KO Helios EX-10 which is a very lightweight unit.

As mentioned earlier, try out as many radios as you can at the LHS before purchasing. Once you get into the $250+ range they all have the same bells and whistles, it's all about feel at that point.

 

[djdoug99]

Thanks for all of your help guys. Another question, whatever Tx and Rx I end up going with, will I be able to shorten the antenna without losing performance? I ask this because I know I will flip my car numerous amount of times on the track and don't want the antenna to get damaged or ripped out. I'm not talking about shortening it all the way down to the Rx, but short enough so its below the wing so when it flips it wont rub against the ground.

Thanks

 

[Rolex]

Nope, not wise. You can get away with it as long as you're fairly close to the car. The wire goes inside a plastic tube that can take quite a bit of abuse. Get one long enough to protect the length of the antenna wire.
If your wire ever gets broken, you'll have to open the Rx and solder on a new one of the proper length.
The length and gauge 'tune' the receiver to the Tx frequency.