Hey Everybody...  Got a new radio recently and wanted to share it with you...  After a lot of research and debating I settled on a Spektrum DX6i from Amazon for $139:

Ok - so why would an FPVer decide to choose this radio over one of the other more mainstream "FPV" radios.  Well here's my list of must haves for the new radio:

1. A radio that could easily support a buddy box system with my existing DX5E
2. Multi-model support to run my Tricopter, Bixler, and the Zephyr build which I am working on
3. Full capabilities of throttle curves, expos, dual rates, reversing and the like
4. Compatibilities with my other 2.4Ghz receivers (Spektrum and OrangeRX)
5. Upwards compatibility with LRS systems from Dragon Link and EZUHF

It really came down to a decision of the Turnigy 9 channel radios systems and the DX6i.  With the Turnigy I would have opted for the FrSky system (which doesn't seem to be compatible with Spektrum/OrangeRX without another transmitter module).  Also, which there is a path to use the Turnigy TX with the DX5E later - it isn't obvious and requires a new cable to be created.

Either system could be used with an eventual LRS system, and as I grow into that need I can use the DX6i as is and even with a 2.4G booster in the future should I want to extend the range.

Let's continue with the box opening:

Comes nicely packaged with a high quality instruction manual plus the rechargeable batteries as seen above.

The fit and finish of the DX6i is really good and even better than what I had with the DX5E.  The LCD display menu system is adequate, but can be time consuming when you are entering the text for the name of a model.

Another view showing the manual and the batteries.

Close up showing all the knobs and switches.  The learning curve isn't too bad from the DX5E.  The binding sequence is very similar and so are the rest of the "basics" like trims.

Here you can see more detail of the design.  The "Trottle Cut" seen here can also be used to start and stop a flight timing if you choose to.  You can also see the dual rate switches for the elevators and ailerons.

Here we've got the rechargeable batteries (which I am sure will make the radio pay for itself this seasons!

Flying with the DX6i is really great.  For the Bixler I'm having fun using the expos on it  to really dial in some smooth flying characteristics.  It can really alter the complete flight characteristics of the plane.

Using it on the Tricopter has been great too.  I especially like using the expos as well as having the model selected as a "helicopter type" which allows you to draw very nice throttle curves to allow very precise vertical control of the model.  On the DX5E it was one click for up and the one for down.  This is a dream to fly now!

Ok - that's it for now.  I've got some projects in the works which I'll be sharing in the next week or so..

Comments welcome!