Radios??? What to buy...

[NitroNoob]

Well since I am going to be picking up an HPI MT2 18SS within the next month or so and it doesnt come with any radio equipment or servos, I was wondering what type of radio to get to go along with it.

Should I buy an AM or an FM?

I am running the stock AM setup in my Savage and I have had no problems with it, is it really worth stepping up to FM if your not really a racer and more of a backyard basher?

[Mr. Tune]

What's your budget?

I got the JR XS3 Pro and love it. It's not cheap (~$230) but it's worth every penny. Having a synthesized radio is nice as I've used it quite a few times at the track and when bashing with others. Multi-setup memory is also am excellent feature when you have more than 1 car/truck. Pick up an extra receiver for the savage and use the same remote for both.

[DAVEC-NITRO-RS4]

Does the MT2 need 3 channels? If not, I like the Futaba AM 2PL.

Entry level programmable with display that comes complete with 2 servo's, switch, battery box, receiver, etc.. for about $75. It also has multiple model memory. Nice features like digital trims, endpoint adjust and antilock braking. It also has built-in jack if you use rechargable batt's.

If you have to have FM or Synth, bring more money! If you're just fun running, it's a step above the basic kit radios.

[NitroNoob]

Im gonna have about $700.00 to throw at this whole deal, but of course if I dont have to spend it all I wont.

The MT2 only needs a 2 channel radio/reciever as I dont think there are any options like reverse available for the truck.

[John78]

of all the time I've spent bashing around with an AM radio, I've never really had problems with it. But I do have the same radio and Mr. T and it's really nice. never having to worry about channels is a nice option. If there is a specific brand that you like stick with it, but I think FM at least is the way to go.

[rocco79]

The Jr pro is the best in my opinion but i have a futaba pm3 . Its fm , its NOT synth. but it works well. its easy to ajust and set and the recievers are only 50 bucks

[Smokey]

I have a Futaba 3PM-FM and it is nice very easy to work with (even for an RC noob like me). Alot of features 10 model memory and they had a special at HobbytownUSA in St.Charles for the Synth version of the same radio with no servos for like $125. I also looked at the Hitec Aggressor that accepts modules so you could upgrade it to the next gen stuff too but could not get my hands on one when I was buying my truck last fall.

My friend has a JR PRO SX3 which is a really nice synth radio everyone seems to like, a bit rich for my blood though.

I also have an RC18T with a AM XP2 and it glitches like crazy and I also have an older AM futaba and it also glitched occasionally the FM futaba I use now for my Savage has not glitched once.

Overall everyone I spoke to when I was buying my radio for the savage siad to get FM if you can afford it.

[SixVi6-Camaro]

Best in my opinion is an M8 with the Spektrum system. That is the only system you truly don't have to worry about channels ever. If the spektrum was not out thouhg I'd be running a JR XS3. Next best thing to spektrum would be a synthesized radio.

[thenewguy821]

Biggest thing to keep in mind, is how interested in RC are you?

If you are just looking to do something on the weekends, to keep from boredom, Almost any radio will do.

If you are fairly well into RC, and have more than one car, I would definately recommend getting a better radio. Preferably one with "Multiple model memory". What this does, is stores the trim settings for each car you have programmed in, so you don't have to keep readjusting everything each time you switch cars.

If you are going to be bashing/racing with groups of people, I would say get a Synthesized radio. That way you don't have to wait for a channel to "Clear", you just change your channel and start having fun.

I made the mistake of going the "cheaper " route, and have switched radios a few times. Better to get it over with early, rather than end up buying 3-4 different radios, till you get what you want.

[Smokey]

Originally Posted by SixVi6-Camaro

Best in my opinion is an M8 with the Spektrum system. That is the only system you truly don't have to worry about channels ever. If the spektrum was not out thouhg I'd be running a JR XS3. Next best thing to spektrum would be a synthesized radio.

I agree M8 is best and Spektrum is awsome. But the M8 is a bit pricey($400!). But if you are not hard core take a look at the hitec radios there are 2 models that accept the spectrum modules and niether costs $400...

[rocco79]

Originally Posted by Smokey

I have a Futaba 3PM-FM and it is nice very easy to work with (even for an RC noob like me). Alot of features 10 model memory and they had a special at HobbytownUSA in St.Charles for the Synth version of the same radio with no servos for like $125. I also looked at the Hitec Aggressor that accepts modules so you could upgrade it to the next gen stuff too but could not get my hands on one when I was buying my truck last fall.

My friend has a JR PRO SX3 which is a really nice synth radio everyone seems to like, a bit rich for my blood though.

I also have an RC18T with a AM XP2 and it glitches like crazy and I also have an older AM futaba and it also glitched occasionally the FM futaba I use now for my Savage has not glitched once.

Overall everyone I spoke to when I was buying my radio for the savage siad to get FM if you can afford it.

The only problem is this syth. pm3 radio at hobbytown does NOT come with a syth. reciever!!!! Its the stuipdest thing. Why the "F" wouldnt futaba give ya a syth reciever witha syth. radio!?!?!?

[Smokey]

Originally Posted by rocco79

The only problem is this syth. pm3 radio at hobbytown does NOT come with a syth. reciever!!!! Its the stuipdest thing. Why the "F" wouldnt futaba give ya a syth reciever witha syth. radio!?!?!?

True enough.....

[rocco79]

Truely ghey to the 10th power!

[grim digger]

one word nitronoob, "synthisized" i am not much into racing anymore but it easier to set one radio for all r/c's be it 2-3 or traxxas or mini-t set them up with one radio,and all your problems with crystals,are gone,you will be alot happier garranteed,now for brands thats all up to your own preferences if you have 10 r/c's get somthing that handles that many,if you less then 5 get something in that range,i personally prefer jr radio's,but your preferences should fit your r/c'ing habits
GD