RC India

I have recently started on helis and I am using my old 72 MHz Futaba 6EXHP. I would like to change to a 2.4 GHz system. However I would prefer to buy from an LHS rather than import as I really would not like to deal with customs. I see that the Futaba EX and the Futaba 6JA are both available at the same price ie. Rs. 16000.00. The 6EX is a 2.4 GHz FAAST upgrade version of what I have been using for the past few years but I really cannot find any info or feed-back on the 6JA. Nor are there any threads on this forum regarding this. Anybody out there has a POV or advice on this please?
Would be a great help.
Regards
Pradeep

A 6 channel 2.4Ghz radio at Rs16000 sounds overpriced... you should wait for a second hand sale :)

Stay away from the 6J, it uses FHSS which is incompatible with FASST, and is Futaba's entry level system (even though the software is more capable than the 6EX one).

Thanks a ton Anwar. I will wait if you so advise. I just thought that changing receivers from one heli to another is so much more work than it used to be for fixed wings. But finding another receiver to match the 72 MZh tx is not possible any more. My Corona (second rx) doesn't seen to work too well on helis. Moves in jerks. Even the trim adjustments. Do let me know if you hear of a good set going. :salute:
Pradeep

I have 2  Futaba Synthesised Rx (309 & 319) in perfect working condition.

PM with contact number, if interested.

What channel are you on, in 72Mhz ?

72.790...
The Corona RX I am having problems with is a RP8D1.

Thanks for the offer Sushil but I think I will let that go as these are expensive receivers and I would really put that money into a 2.4 system.

Perfectly understood.

I have a question - Is the Assan hack X8D a possibility in my case till I come across a reasonably priced good 2.4 system? I did find some very good reports on this forum but dated 2009. The gizmo is about US60.00 at HK.

Sorry guys but another question. Is Sanwa a brand that I can also look at? The Sanwa RDS8000. I know it uses FHSS but is that such a big deal? FHSS is also a spread spectrum technology like Futaba's FASST.

I didn't mean to belittle FHSS or put it in any negative light.  Even FASST is a type of FHSS, and all of the current 2.4Ghz systems emply some form of FHSS. The only non-FHSS system (Spektrum) has also jumped on the FHSS bandwagon with its new DSMX system.

Sanwa/Airtronics is probably the most reliable system so far (based on feedback on many forums, especially the US ones).  RDS8000 is a little bit older model, and the software may be a little dated... but it is a reliable and fairly capable system.  It is not as widespread as some others, which is not their fault (except may be a bit more marketing, and availability of cheaper receivers).

The Assan hack module (or even better, the FrSky one) is certainly an option.  But I would suggest that you go for a radio with better software, especially one that displays the trim settings on the main screen itself (which was one of the biggest issues I had with the Futaba 6channel, which was also my first branded radio).

Thanks for putting things in perspective Anwar. So does that mean I can opt for the Sanwa RDS8000 since its available for about 13 from Sai?

That is your personal decision... I believe I have given you a fair assessment :)

One thing I missed adding about Sanwa is that they are less in numbers which translates to 1) lower chances of finding spare receivers in classifieds 2) trouble with using buddy cables with others on the field and 3) the possibility of cheap clone receivers being available.  These points apply to others brands like Hitec also, which are good technology but not widely used.

This might help you in under standing 2.4 g's gyan.

http://www.rcmodelreviews.com/spreadspectrum01.shtml


I think FHSS and FASST are different name of same tech, and Airtronics and Futaba uses almost same technology.

I and Anwar bhai had a nice discussion on this previously, just seek for other radio threads.

I use futaba,because of practical problems mentioned on post above

Wasn't there heated discussion about Futaba 7C radios being available with Irshad (Kolkatta) for around 13K ? Another aspect you can consider.

Thank you very much for all the inputs. I definitely appreciate the fact that choosing a radio system needs to be based on reliability and then on availability of repair and spares. Its true that Futaba used to be the most popular brand on a flying field but obviously things have changed and Spectrum seems to be the current favourite. Sanwa has always remained understated. I did read the posts on Sanwa being "the choice of champions" and Irshad (Irshad Anwar from Calcutta????) selling 7c for 13K. But I totally forgot about the latter. Will contact Irshad and check with him.
Thanks and cheers!