Aces High Bulletin Board
General Forums => The O' Club => Topic started by: Supaf1y on March 01, 2008, 03:16:09 PM
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Looking to get into RC planes and was wondering if some of you experienced RC pilots wouldn't mind recommending a trainer plane. Prebuilt or semi-prebuilt, if there is such a thing. Budget for initial trainer, radio and such is about $500.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
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Go get the Slo V trainer. It has everything you need for flight in it and is almost ready to fly. About 10 minutes to assemble the plane and then charge up the flight battery. It has decent performance and is very forgiving of a new pilot. Since it uses a digital radio and receiver you don't have to worry really about signal interference. It will also fly in a smaller space like a school yard but it won't take much wind at all.
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I have been flying r/c for 30 years. I recommend the Hangar 9 trainer. Get a solid .40 engine (like OS). Get the best radio you can afford for later planes.
R/C isn't cheap. You will need money for a starting box, etc. You can go lowball, but you will end up replacing the cheap junk later, netting a higher cost in the end.
Cheap is usually crap.
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Slow V to start with.
I was taught the standard way. Had a trainer to help me fly my .40 trainer for many weekends. However, my dad taught himself to fly in the backyard. Started on a Slow V, moved up to something faster after 6 weeks.
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got MSFS loaded up on the computer?
Practice flyin from tower view to build the reflexes you need ..ie: comin at you and drops a wing, move aileron lever *to* the low wing.. on a low slow approach it's somethin ya gotta do by reflex, and only way to get it is practice.
taxiin at ya, move rudder the direction it's veering.. etc.
You need to do it without thinkin about it :)
-GE
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If you think you're in it for the long haul, invest in a JR 2.4ghz radio up front. They'll set you back about $700 but you will NEVER lose a model due to radio interference using one of these radios. They're based on 2.4 ghz networking technology licensed from Spektrum, who also sell their own line of radios. The JR radios are very high quality, and the digital format pretty much guarantees zero interference from other radios.
Trust me on this... Every experienced modeller I know is jumping on the bandwagon. It's only a matter of time before users of old radio styles will be relegated to second class citizen status at flying clubs and RC airfields. Heck, they already are at some fun flys and competitions.
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Consider one of the software training packages. I bought the "aerofly professional" package, and it's great for off-season practice or for evening practicing of new skills your instructor just showed you.
There are others, I have used this one and it's nice. The price is also competitive with the other competing versions.
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Originally posted by Supaf1y
Looking to get into RC planes and was wondering if some of you experienced RC pilots wouldn't mind recommending a trainer plane. Prebuilt or semi-prebuilt, if there is such a thing. Budget for initial trainer, radio and such is about $500.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
We really need more info. on what your after.....do you want electric or nitro.......how big of an area do you intend to fly from......do you have ANY previous RC experience........will you have any help at all with final assembly and/or maiden flight? These are all big factors and without knowing them, all suggestions are just guesses.
Also, you might try your question at www.rcgroups.com (http://www.rcgroups.com) or another RC related BBS as well for more definitive answers.
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Originally posted by eagl
If you think you're in it for the long haul, invest in a JR 2.4ghz radio up front. They'll set you back about $700 but you will NEVER lose a model due to radio interference using one of these radios. They're based on 2.4 ghz networking technology licensed from Spektrum, who also sell their own line of radios. The JR radios are very high quality, and the digital format pretty much guarantees zero interference from other radios.
Trust me on this... Every experienced modeller I know is jumping on the bandwagon. It's only a matter of time before users of old radio styles will be relegated to second class citizen status at flying clubs and RC airfields. Heck, they already are at some fun flys and competitions.
The more people that jump, the less likely I'll have to wait for a frequency pin!:p
JR is one of the top of the line for sure, but you've already blown his budget. Airtronics just released a 2.4ghz that can be had for just over $200.00. Not as many bells and whistles to be sure, but I've been in RC for 20+ years and I still cringe at the thought of dropping $700+ on a radio. I think it would last a noob quite a while before he needed to upgrade. Futaba also has some nice 2.4 units for under $400, and you could still get a Spektrum DX7 for about the same. But hey, Its his $$$, 72mhz has been fine for years and would still serve him well for just over $140.
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I didn't know Airtronics had gone 2.4. Thx. I have owned and used an airtronics radio for years and I never had any problems with it.
I'll have to look into the airtronics 2.4 as an alternative to the JR... The JR radios are really nice, and the best thing is that once you have a gucci transmitter then you don't buy any more. You just buy more RX modules every time you build/buy a new plane.
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If you are looking for a "larger" model that will prepare you for the "field" fliers, rather than a park flyer, I would recommend the Hangar 9 Alpha. Although now they do have a new model out that has a DX6i Spread Spectrum radio, it is low wing, which im not sure how well that will work. You want that high wing for stability. I have successfully instructed MANY students using the alpha, and all have been pleased with it. It comes ready to fly, and the engine and radio gear are transferable should you auger, or when you are ready for a new aircraft. Keep in mind however, that eventually you WILL want to upgrade radios, as the alpha comes with only a 4 channel, but the servos and reciever could still be used in a new plane with a new radio so long as you use the 72mhz band. if there IS a hangar 9 alpha available with the DX6i i owuld go that route. I personally own both a JR 10x radio, and a DX7i spread spectrum, and I fly mainly on my DX7. the 10x i reserve for my scale models that need mroe than 7 channels, such as my jet.
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I would go with a 40 sized trainer(electric this size not in yer budget).I have a slow-v but don't recommend it as a trainer.It can show u how to fly but you need a dead wind and it's not a good platform for learing the ins & outs of R/C flying.
a 40 sized trainer is built crash resistant,forgiving flight charactoristcs and way more fun when u are able to open up the throttle at a safe altitude.The hardest thing in RC is learing landing approaches and a slow v doesn't fit the bill as a trainer.
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Thanks for all the great advice everyone. I do know that it's an expensive hobby but, without intentionally sounding smug, it is a hobby that I can afford and one that I have been looking to get into since I was a kid. Finally I'm at a point in my life where I can do this. The $500 initial budget is flexible of course but I wanted to set a limit so I didn't go overboard on my first plane in case I find out this hobby isn't for me. I don't think that will happen at all but wanted to set it somewhere and $500 seemed reasonable. But getting a good radio that will last me for years to come sounds like a good and smart idea.
Since starting this thread I found a R/C Club just a few miles from my home ( http://www.flyaways.org/ ) and it looks like they have a training program so that will help. The Slo-V seemed like a good idea but SirLoin does seems to bring up some valid points about that.
I think I'm leaning more towards a 40 sized trainer and if I remember correctly I think I saw a couple that came with flight sim software. Found the link http://www.rc-airplane-world.com/gas-rc-airplanes.html
So I guess I'll do what the local R/C Club suggests under their "Instruction/Get Started" tab and that is to come see their club, meet with one of their trainers, do a test hop and get some more advice on what equipment to buy, buy the equipment then start training.
Thanks again all...can't wait to get started but I also know I need to control myself and not go too fast and get ahead of what I am learning. Meaning I would love to go out right now and buy a plane, radio and other needed gear but I will just practice a bit of patience.
EDIT: Question - What is the advantage/disadvantage to starting with a 40 sized trainer compared to a 60?
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The only real differences are cost, which are minimal in my opinion, and size. The .60 will cost a little more initially and will drink a little more fuel over the time that you use it, it's just not that big of a deal. If you can afford the .60 size trainer then the extra size can be a benefit, but its not really necessary.:aok
You've made a wise choice going with a club and an instructor. The hobby is fun and rewarding, and not all that expensive after your initial investment. Thats when the term "nickel and dime" starts to come into play!:D All in all though, it can be as costly as you'd care to make it depending on your flying style. Besides if you REALLY want to get expensive, start flying RC helicopters!!:eek:
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Originally posted by eagl
I didn't know Airtronics had gone 2.4. Thx. I have owned and used an airtronics radio for years and I never had any problems with it.
I'll have to look into the airtronics 2.4 as an alternative to the JR... The JR radios are really nice, and the best thing is that once you have a gucci transmitter then you don't buy any more. You just buy more RX modules every time you build/buy a new plane.
Airtronics 2.4GHz HERE! (http://www.airtronics.net/airtronics_RDS8000.asp)[/b]
I just ordered one for my electric heli radio since I mostly fly in my back yard and the park and I've always been worried about someone else switching on while I'm airborne, getting shot down it the pits and 72MHz is prone to it around here! I've always had good luck with their stuff so I can't see why this would be any different, but who knows. :aok
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Originally posted by SirLoin
I would go with a 40 sized trainer(electric this size not in yer budget).I have a slow-v but don't recommend it as a trainer.It can show u how to fly but you need a dead wind and it's not a good platform for learing the ins & outs of R/C flying.
a 40 sized trainer is built crash resistant,forgiving flight charactoristcs and way more fun when u are able to open up the throttle at a safe altitude.The hardest thing in RC is learing landing approaches and a slow v doesn't fit the bill as a trainer.
I agree since he's going with a club and instructor, lots of good 40s and 60s to be had. IF he was going to try to go it alone I'd have sent him towards the Multiplex EasyStar electric, and the free FMS simulator with the EasyStar model. I think he's made a good choice that will help ensure success though.;)
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I've been dithering over ordering a JR 2.4 system, but the airtronics RDS8000 looks really good and the price is outstanding. $229 for the tx and rx, additional RX for just under $80, and it uses pretty much any standard servo.
I won't buy today (why jump into backorder queue when I can't even use the thing for another couple of months) but I'll probably get one of these plus a couple extra RX in a couple of months.
http://www.hobbypeople.net/gallery/751700.asp
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Looks like the Hanger 9 Alpha is coming with 2.4GHz radio package soon. Any thoughts....cheap radio brand?
http://www.horizonhobby.com/Products/Default.aspx?ProdID=HAN4400
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Originally posted by Supaf1y
Looks like the Hanger 9 Alpha is coming with 2.4GHz radio package soon. Any thoughts....cheap radio brand?
http://www.horizonhobby.com/Products/Default.aspx?ProdID=HAN4400
It's a Spektrum 5 ch entry level radio radio, very good. Spektrum pioneered the 2.4ghz radios and the one included with that model would last you for quite a while.
I have no experience with that trainer and the only plane I've ever owned from Hangar 9 was an overweight pig that took extensive work to lighten it enough to fly. That said, I seldom hear anything bad about Hangar 9 and this plane seem to be highly recommended.:cool:
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Invest in the computer RC trainer. You will learn to fly the plane from the ground, quite different than being inside (like AH). Get one that has a typical RC transmitter interface.
Simple rules will become evident.... ailerons are reversed (in a way) when the plane is coming towards you. (push the stick to the low wing to level the plane). etc etc etc
I taught my brother to fly and he was learning about as well as anyone I ever taught (and I instructed 100's). He bought the RC Trainer software and learned on an accelerated curve like I've never seen.
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Originally posted by TalonX
Invest in the computer RC trainer. You will learn to fly the plane from the ground, quite different than being inside (like AH). Get one that has a typical RC transmitter interface.
Simple rules will become evident.... ailerons are reversed (in a way) when the plane is coming towards you. (push the stick to the low wing to level the plane). etc etc etc
I taught my brother to fly and he was learning about as well as anyone I ever taught (and I instructed 100's). He bought the RC Trainer software and learned on an accelerated curve like I've never seen.
As stated earlier, a couple of models I'm looking at (Hanger Alpha 40 & Hobbico NexSTAR 46) come with computer RC software. You just hook up the radio that comes with the combo kit to you PC via usb cable and take to the virtual skies using the same type of plane that you just bought.
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Are you looking at the nexstar ARF or ready to fly? If you get one without the radio, you could add the 2.4 ghz airtronics and have a radio that would be perfect for your next model as well.
The fully ready to fly version has a cheapo 4 ch futaba... futaba radios are generally fine but 4 ch is going to really limit your options and you'll still have to worry about frequencies.
The complete package with the great planes simulator is neat, but you'll end up duplicating at least the radio purchase when it comes time for your next model.
Then again, that nexstar package looks fairly complete. Some of those features like the AFS stability dingus, the removable "training flaps", and the drooped leading edge airfoil extensions are pretty unique for trainers but they ought to work fine. The AFS might go wonky if it's not set up right but I suppose following the instructions ought to make it work out ok. You'll still need to find an instructor, but that .46 size nexstar looks like it ought to be a fine trainer. Assuming it's not grossly overpriced, the big question would be whether to get the ARF version (requiring a radio and engine) or the fully ready to fly version which will reduce the number of installation decisions you'll need to make.
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Originally posted by eagl
Are you looking at the nexstar ARF or ready to fly? If you get one without the radio, you could add the 2.4 ghz airtronics and have a radio that would be perfect for your next model as well.
The fully ready to fly version has a cheapo 4 ch futaba... futaba radios are generally fine but 4 ch is going to really limit your options and you'll still have to worry about frequencies.
The complete package with the great planes simulator is neat, but you'll end up duplicating at least the radio purchase when it comes time for your next model.
Then again, that nexstar package looks fairly complete. Some of those features like the AFS stability dingus, the removable "training flaps", and the drooped leading edge airfoil extensions are pretty unique for trainers but they ought to work fine. The AFS might go wonky if it's not set up right but I suppose following the instructions ought to make it work out ok. You'll still need to find an instructor, but that .46 size nexstar looks like it ought to be a fine trainer. Assuming it's not grossly overpriced, the big question would be whether to get the ARF version (requiring a radio and engine) or the fully ready to fly version which will reduce the number of installation decisions you'll need to make.
Well right now I'm going to wait a bit until I get a chance to visit the local R/C club and speak with some instructors they have. I was leaning towards a .40 ARF so that I could pick my own engine (maybe the OS .46AX (http://www.osengines.com/engines/osmg0547.html)) and radio (maybe the Futaba 6EX (http://2.4gigahertz.com/systems/futk6900.html)). But now, as stated a couple posts above, I see that the Alpha Trainer RTF will be coming with a Spektrum 5 channel 2.4GHz radio in a couple months. Hmmmmm
I really like that Nexstar with the added features and it comes with a pretty nice OS .46FXi engine I believe but the 4 channel radio is a bit of a turn off. Found a detailed review of it here with videos and everything :) http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=222400
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The review sounds promising. Based on my own experience both learning initially and helping train someone else using a similar plane, it sounds like the nexstar ready to fly kit would be a great first model. The price (around $400?) sounds reasonable. If/when it's wrecked, the engine can be reused (if it doesn't get destroyed in the wreck) but you'd want a new radio. At $400 for the whole thing though, it's not exactly like you'd be tossing out a lot of money by getting another radio.
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http://www.hobby-lobby.com/beginners-rc.htm
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hangar 9 alpha DSM2
http://www.rcuniverse.com/magazine/newproduct.cfm?product_id=2798
299.00 street price. RTF. Cant beat it.
Also i want to say that the alpha is the best trainer i have used to train students. Ive used the nexstar, etc as well, but the alpha by far is my preferred bird. Now with a Spread Spectrum radio, its even better.
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Any comments on Spektrum DX6 setups guys? Moving in 2 months and getting a massive reservoir for a backyard. Really enjoy playing with EDF foamies, and not afraid to crash since I can cut out a new fan trainer in under an hour.
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The DX6i is great, I got one with my Blade 400. Everything the DX7 has minus 1 channel.. I use it for my Blade, TRex, and a couple of foamies. Been VERY happy. I use my DX7 for most of my planes, including giant scale. And the JR 10x I use for my scale birds, and my jet, which require more than 7 channels.
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Find a local AMA Club & join it or at least join AMA.
http://www.modelaircraft.org/
Also, this is a good site to find RC Planes
http://search.horizonrc.com/
Here's some planes that would be well sited for a beginner
Alpha 40 Trainer:
http://www.horizonhobby.com/Products/Default.aspx?ProdID=HAN2475
P-51 Trainer that converts to an ACM ready fighter:
http://www.horizonhobby.com/Products/Default.aspx?ProdID=HAN2825
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Originally posted by Sol75
hangar 9 alpha DSM2
http://www.rcuniverse.com/magazine/newproduct.cfm?product_id=2798
299.00 street price. RTF. Cant beat it.
Also i want to say that the alpha is the best trainer i have used to train students. Ive used the nexstar, etc as well, but the alpha by far is my preferred bird. Now with a Spread Spectrum radio, its even better.
Yeah I've mentioned that soon-to-be-released RTF combo at least twice in this thread but thanks anyhow. Without yet talking to anyone at the club I have narrowed it down to that Alpha DSM2, the Sig Kadet LT-40 or the Sig Kadet Senior. All 3 of those are flat-bottom wings for slower, easier handling planes. But I'm also considering a semi-symmetrical winged trainer which would allow for some intermediate style of flying once I became better. Planes that I'm considering in this category are the Hobbico Avistar & the Hanger 9 Arrow.
After doing more research I am no longer considering the Hobbico NexSTAR, Goldberg Eagle or Tower Trainer...they were on my list.
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Originally posted by RATTFINK
Find a local AMA Club & join it or at least join AMA.
Ever get the funny feeling that not everyone is reading the thread before posting? ;) Just yankin' your chain man. :D
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Originally posted by Sol75
The DX6i is great, I got one with my Blade 400. Everything the DX7 has minus 1 channel.. I use it for my Blade, TRex, and a couple of foamies. Been VERY happy. I use my DX7 for most of my planes, including giant scale. And the JR 10x I use for my scale birds, and my jet, which require more than 7 channels.
Nice. How does the receiver handle high speed impacts? I'm the king of the shovel recovery. I'll never build anything out of balsa :)
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Originally posted by Supaf1y
Ever get the funny feeling that not everyone is reading the thread before posting? ;) Just yankin' your chain man. :D
I don't remember seeing anything about AMA. I did see the mention of other clubs. But AMA offers alot more then your everyday R/C plane club.
AMA is the one you want.
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Originally posted by RATTFINK
I don't remember seeing anything about AMA. I did see the mention of other clubs. But AMA offers alot more then your everyday R/C plane club.
AMA is the one you want.
I was just kidding around. The local club that I mentioned suggests/requires to be an AMA member to be part of their club. From their website:
How do I get started?
1. Find a club that is local to your home; attend one of their meetings and see if their culture is a good match for you.
2. You want to look for a club that has an active instruction program.
3. If you have never flown RC airplanes before see if you can arrange for an instructor to give you a test hop using the instructors plane.
4. Obtain feedback from the club members on the type of plane, equipment and supplies that are the most reliable.
5. Join the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA).
6. Join the local club.
7. Purchase the recommended plane, equipment and supplies.
8. Start formal instruction.
Seems like a good club but we will see. They have a general meeting coming up soon I think and I'll attend that, introduce myself and go from there.
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I’m sure you’ll be satisfied w/ the =AMA=. They usually meet once a month & usually at the beginning of that month.
Here’s a plus; if you join the AMA, they’ll insure your plane & you when you fly.
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Indy, I havenot yet had the opportunity to auger a craft with the spread spectrum installed, so THAT i do not know...yet... lol
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Here is a spreadsheet that I put together showing the specs of some popular trainer planes. It's a very, very simple spreadsheet as I am not very knowledgeable with Excel. It's still a work in progress.
Download Link (https://www.onlinefilefolder.com/index.php?action=getshare&type=0&user_num=2691&share_id=177208&hash=db8997392051113cfc2b28cbe2c46d23)
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Originally posted by indy007
Any comments on Spektrum DX6 setups guys? Moving in 2 months and getting a massive reservoir for a backyard. Really enjoy playing with EDF foamies, and not afraid to crash since I can cut out a new fan trainer in under an hour.
I read at rcuniverse that there was some concern with the range of some of the earlier spektrum systems. Spektrum and JR 2.4 systems also do not frequency hop to avoid interference. They pick 2 frequencies at power-on and stick with those two throughout the flight. Futaba and the new Airtronics radios frequency hop. According to the Airtronics rep who frequents rcuniverse forums, interference on any one channel should last for only 1/20th of a second and they've demonstrated in excess of 2 miles range.
I've been looking into 2.4 ghz systems for about a year now, and I think that for price/features ratio, I think the new airtronics 8 ch 2.4 system probably can't be beat. Before last week, I'd have put in a plug for JR but I spend a whole sick day at home reading up on everything I could find, and that's what I came up with.
That said, I don't have anything solid *against* the spektrum systems. I have read random reports about range problems and some people think the spektrum transmitters feel "cheap" somehow. A very experienced RC pilot I respect said that I should pay the extra bucks and go with JR since the quality was unmatched. But I haven't gotten his opinion on the new airtronics system.