I fly quad and I am happy with x7 with upgraded gimbals. Too expensive with no extra function and features that I need. It would be nice when manufacturer include a video receiver built-in.
As someone with smaller hands, considering how much power small quads get, can't they do the same with transmitters...Standard shape is fine for pinch flyers I guess, I'm a thumber though and I'm stretching on a taranis. Turnigy evolution did a good job with transmitter design and it is quite natural for anyone who plays video games as its a lot like an xbox pad...it is missing a lot of features though, pretty basic transmitter. I'm also a bit disapointed frsky are still using a wheel and buttons in 2018...turnigy evo has touch screen and its under £60.
Very well done with your summation about the differences in transmitters and where technology should be, but you make it sound as if the transmitters of today are relics, in this hobby new technology comes with higher prices, so at present since the devices in use are still functional and doing what's necessary they're still good to go. You've been flying a great deal longer than I have, so I respect your expertise in your reviews of the evolution in RC flying.
So my first model was a Veron Robot. A one valve Hill receiver + McGreggor kit transmitter. So get some time in kiddo!!! LOL. I just bought a Horus X10 for my 'me to me ' Christmas present. I've already got an x9. Reason for the upgrade was to fly my 40% scale Fournier RF 4 Motor glider. It is fitted with 2 x X6R receivers, 16 channel redundancy bus, full Gas Suite, air speed, altimeter. Features 70cc NGH petrol, custom made retract, air brakes. Wing tip smoke canisters. Developed with the help of Mick Reeves ( scaled up laser cut parts). The Horus operating system utilises a Bluetooth function with ' Freelink' app for improved telemetry visualisation to a mobile device ( eg IPod touch) , handled by a copilot! I am about to switch the Horus over to Open TX ( following your very clear explanation on this channel) Do you hnow if this feature will be lost?? I am guessing that it will!
In 1996, why didn't you buy a PCM10? It was only £1000. Maybe we should find out who has been flying R/C the longest. My score is a mere 65 years (1953). Transmitters then used a 120 volt HT battery which was bigger and heavier than a Taranis.
Better With A Drone my buddy has an IX12 and he hates it (and he's die hard Spektrum too). The Android aspect really slows down the radio he tells me, he's even turned off all wireless connectivity on it in an effort to try to get it to work faster. He tells me all his mates in the US with them have Facebook and internet banking apps on them etc and why the heck would you wanna do all that when you're out flying (and I have to agree). I'm not a huge fan of touchscreens myself, yes sure it's nice to have but how many times have you messed up spelling on your smartphone (for example). Andy is right to a degree when he says things have stagnated-all tx's look dated as a rule, the Taranis looks REALLY dated and I've even upgraded the heck out of mine-so yea, maybe it's time to embrace a little change-openTX is getting upgraded all the time so why not upgrade the tx itself to something a bit more modern looking? I have heard though that the screen is a bitch for reflecting sunlight and a matte screen protector is a must.
Very good and interesting approach, master AndyRC. His Highness is supposedly a radio engineer, someone should contact him and give him a mission: Construct a top notch DIY transmitter. I looked inside, it's a printboard and lots of empty space, should be possible :)
You are absolutely right...! Transmitters are not keeping up with the advances in the RCVR side components... Imagine the capabilities if they had been keeping up...!
The Taranis shell is very similar in appearance to the JR XP9303 shell but it's not an exact clone. It's actually the same mould that was used for the the Kingmax T810 FM radio shell. Plastic moulds are hideously expensive and using a pre existing mould allowed FrSky to knock a good chunk of change off the development cost.
Nice touch with the transmitters. I mostly strugle with the size of them. I guess that DJI is getting close to take over with Occusync. I just saw a quad with Occusync video transmission system. The guy reported that video latency is fine. But if Occusync is able to transmit also controll singnal then it will be huge winner in terms of transportability.
i am waiting more eagerly revolution or some meaningful breakthrough in battery tech. Radio was important in a days of LOS flights with FPV and OSD i hardly watch at it while flying.
Nice review as usual Andy, Frsky make nice stuff and this does look nice BUT.... It's just too big and heavy these days when I'm flying micro quads and have nice small goggles , then I have to carry around a huge tx ...
I think you make a good point here. I would like to have android running on it and have something resembling betaflight configuration going. Lua scrips are cool but so much more could be possible.
Andy, great video. I agree that transmitter technology has remained stagnate over the years. The X10S is a step in the right direction. I would like to see Betalight run from a high end transmitter. Keep the content coming!
I'd have to say I think the FlySky FS-i10 made some notable advances to separate it from FrSky and all the others (of the past). It's thin and light, very thin and light. It's got a full color touch screen display. It's got an included and swappable lipo that can be charged via micro USB, and without needing to remove it from the TX. It's 3 pots can be recessed to get them out of the way, protect them, and maintain their position. It's only $99 for the TGY-i10 version (better IMO as well). It, or FlySky in general, has the lowest latency than all the others by far... EVEN Crossfire! It uses i-Bus, which is known to be more stable than S-Bus. I will NEVER understand why anyone would choose the bulky, heavy, non-ergonomic, quality-of-life-feature deprived, overpriced, high latency (slow), old/dumb/brick of a TX, unless they absolutely needed a function that is not available on the faster/lighter/smarter/cheaper TGY-i10 (and that is a tall order for a quad to NEED the extra functions like crazy mixing). IMO OFC. ;) Cheers :)
i agree and i think because the pros all go frsky a lot of the bnfs you can get are favoring frsky and that is why im having to invest in their products
AndyRC I think its just name like iphones!!!!!! FlySky are super nice and as good as frsky but some years ago 1 pilot became a pro with frsky so everybody thinks fs is shit because its cheaper!!!
Totally agree about the stagnation of any ergonomic design, my old Spektum DX7 sits next to my X9D and they look almost identical. Which is why I bought into the Turnigy Evolution, (a nicely designed little Txwith an amazing range and cost me £30 with an Rx). But there is so much more that can be done. Redesign the case so it forms to your hand, design it so your thumbs pivot naturally, (we had rotating gimbals in the (80s!), single-stick designs, (perfect for Bruce, I can't understand why he hasn't made one). Wish I was a product design student, there's a wide-open market.
i was just thinking along these lines the other night, i'm trying to talk myself into getting a qx7, for two main reasons, a short throw hall effect gimbal on the throttle and the range of receivers frsky offer, not to mention crossfire, but its hard to give up the old flysky i6 and its value and performance, and simple things like one wire from vbat to receiver for voltage telemetry which i think is a vital aspect of quad flying, it tells you about battery health via sag and the simplicity of getting it to work puts frsky to shame. so yeah, radios do need a big jolt to get them to move forward a bit, the legacy options make using a frsky pretty hard, surely its way past the time when we have to decypher the legacy functions and a quad specific set of functions be in their place. the hobby is still very very niche even with last years boost in numbers, the main thing holding it back are the mystifying terms and protocols and software updates, and the expense. i think even the horus looks like battlestar galactica technology, i want something with a bit more futuristic styling, and the weight????
Spektrum iX12 has an Android OS, it's $600 though. I'll stick with my DX9 that I modded with M9 gimbals for now. I hear the FrSky X-lite has 2 internal antennas and an external antenna which has me very curious.
How about betaflight app on a smartphone that bluetooths to the radio or hooks straight into flight controller. Or use the screen like the TBS radio to fly a micro in the house and not need my googles
Andy, I totally agree with adding some kind of base operating system! Yuneec's transmitter is based off of Android, which was a great start in my opinion since Android is open source. Like you said if someone would start the movement and community would get behind it you could have beta flight in the field and make all adjustments in the field instead of using a laptop and what not. Anyways maybe we are not too far from that. :) Great Video
now that TBS is putting out great receivers and transmitter modules, I'm assuming they will soon release their own transmitter, which I'm sure will be great. guaranteed it happens this year. 👍
Nice looking RX Andy, great idea about having a screen to see betaflght rather than using smart audio. for my Quads i use the Turnigy Evolution (love it) However when I'm flying my Heli or plane stuff then i use my Futaba.
Hi. Unfortunately here you can't feed a family for a month on that sort of money. Living costs are much higher. Well done for being able to run the hobby in your economy. Something of a challenge I would guess.
I agree we must show we want to move on with our dollars/pounds with in order to progress! Would like to believe one day you could load Android on there like the other new radio out there...when betaflight allows direct communication! Good Joss Andy
Good direction, but the X10S is not there yet. Turnigy evolution had a great idea making the TX more game controller form factor (better ergonomics for control). But the evolution stopped evolving. How about combine xbox style controller with wearable wireless voice command module with screen that can feed into your goggles through OSD. Voice command to perform non-time critical functions that cannot be mapped easily to control switches (change rates, flaps for fixed wing, etc..) As we progress in the world of VR interfaces and augmented reality, I think there is a lot yet to come in the area of RC control.
Nice review. A time for a change maybe but I wished you showed us the Fros system it came with and why you wanted to go back to what you are familiar with which is opentx ,,no change. I have been looking for Fros videos but all seem to want the open tx I guess because they are familiar with it and want,,,, no change. Is the 10S factory operating system so bad or different that no one wants to change and go back to open tx? I do have an old JR 9303 that I still use ,,great radio. I do like your work and have for a long time. Are there ANY videos running through and explaining the pros and cons of Frsky Fros?? I am sure many worked hard on this operating system and I for one would like to see what it is about before going back to no change.
You are totally right man I just found my dads old tx from his rc jet days and it’s over 30 years old and looks very modern for its age.. last years motors might as well a decade old in past tech... and I like my Nokia brick!!!! Snake ftw!
They are module based and they have a tray with rain cover "spacebox" 2 sticks, switches not much you can do different while it still fits your hands well.
+Andy RC I think all the changes you mentioned would be amazing but the way prices are in this hobby a radio with all that functionality would be unaffordable for most of us in the hobby :(
My original Taranis was pretty well worn out just as they released the X12, I was caught up by the flash and bought a Horus that hangs in my shop with a row of 72mhz Tx.($500 wasted) It's display limits functionality and name lengths (The X10 appears to have the same display and issue). I rebuilt my old Taranis, and finally bought an X7S, and that's what I use most lately. The scroll wheel won me over, but I wish it had the extra switches. The Taranis is now mostly for my Giant scale gas stuff. Open TX on all. Wish I could trade my X12 for another Taranis. Or a couple X7S'. Spektrum has the new "Android Transmitter" and personally, I don't see the need. Simpler is more reliable, and flight requires that, manned or not.
Hey, I thought it was great when they moved away from vacuum tubes in transmitters, like my 1st one had (had to have batteries for the filaments and the plates .. expensive 'dry cells' at that). Yes, I flew on 27mhz when there were only 6 RC channels, and if someone was on your frequency, you had to wait for them to land. Then, they moved everything to 72-75 mhz, and opened up loads of channels, and you'd think you'd never run into the "someone is on my frequency" problem .. but it still happened. So, I'm pretty much "over the moon" with my Taranis 9D+, compared to where I've come from. My 1st car was a 1957 Chevy, and I admit that my 2013 Subaru Legacy is quite a bit more comfortable and has loads more features. However, I could still get from point A to point B efficiently with both. Perhaps when A.I. gets to the point where you can give verbal commands to your transmitter, it will be of some significance. Cheers!
thats a good point Bill. I do love the X9D but i think as someone else mentioned. you can take a flight controller or motor from 6 months ago and its old newa, I think in comparison the TX side of things is stalling and perhaps they are even missing a trick. cheers
The model looks tempting but I won't upgrade until FRSKY bring out one with FPV screen like the Devo f12e or Android screen or capability to connect to my phone.
Believe it or not Spektrum has a radio coming out that does basically everything you are talking about. To include native Betaflight support and android functionality. I cant believe it either but I just watched a video on it about a month and a half ago. Maybe you can get a sample when it comes out....
Wow - £331! Not sure where they get their prices from. All for moving on, Andy but I’m sure you mentioned Windows. Imagine in the middle of a long flight getting the message “Ctrl/Alt/Del to reboot.....”
Gotta disagree this time! Change for the sake of change.. not my thing. Build quality looks nice, but the form factor itself isn't anything to write home about - just another massive box. If the thing did in fact run Android (like the ix12) then maybe I'd see the value. If it were smaller than other transmitters, or otherwise more ergonomic then yes I'd see the value. As is though, I'd just as gladly use an X7 or X9d.
I think it's a pity we cannot use that screen as FPV video feed, really a lost chance for FRSKY. I'm in this moment thinking of buying tomorrow another X9D Plus SE or a Horus X10s and apart from the price and gimbals I dont see any big change. I really would like to convince myself on buying tomorrow a X10S but that radio is doing nothing more of a X9D. Anyway, happy problems I suppose...
Dude.. You just blew my mind with adding android and having betaflight right on the transmitter. You may have just changed the industry for the better. Keep it up. Always enjoined your reviews..
i agree that right there is innovation! i only really just got the qx7 and thought it was future proof but fc software on the transmitter omg .how about a link to your'e goggles built in dvr that overlays ur stick inputs into your vids for you!
would also like to augmented reality on goggles that overlays a track and gates into youre video feed in a predetermined area. sod all this setting up and packing down and expensive gates just a bit of software that works with the fc and googles somehow
The industry is moving so fast that it's difficult to pay top dollar just to find out that something better, more suited to your needs, was released while you are waiting for yours to arrive in the male. I bit the bullet on the taranis X9D plus and the SE version comes out. Now FrSky has a new one, the FrSky X-LITE. This is ridiculous!
I'm 'm with ya Andy!! Nice radio!! Like it! So have you heard what is the deal with this other new FrSky I see or did see advertised but have not seen it in the storefronts yet? Did it cease to be or did they make this one instead? For it was more like the Turnigy Evo, and I am STILL even though they are probably making a new version of it as well for I did see that the price of them at Hobby King has came down to a little over fifty USD or so...But I think that is just a good value and should just go ahead and get one of this model for MANY liked it a lot, I know it is no Taranis and does not have voice and things reason I wish to try it is for the comfort for I am a thumber lol and though not a gamer at all still think maybe this type would be good? And at the lowered price well worth it, as I like IBUS as well although it will not replace my X9D, and I probably will not want to spend whatever Turnigy replaces it with if it is not a huge advancement, the Evo that is out now is one I just want to give a shot, but the new FrSky was "spose" to me more like that, a game controller type BUT has the voice and even module bay so thought THAT IS MY NEXT TRANSMITTER!! FOR SURE!! But have not seen anymore about it anywhere?? If you have any info PLEASE disclose!! hahahaa I really was hyped and excited for this new FrSky and was hoping it was not going to cost the $999 that many had it advertised at haha and did find it for under a hundred dollars somewhere as the estimated price for I guess no one really knew what the price tag would be/ Please fill me in when you get chance I seriously would like to know if it is not happening or what? For holding off on the Evo for if this new FrSky is that type but with all the X9D features as voice etc...I GOTTA HAVE ONE!!! Thanks! Keep up the awesome good work!!! -Turbo.
The horus or frsky OS is already just a custom lite version of openTX. FrSky OS does everything 99% of people need just like any other branded radio. Where it comes in to its own is all the lua scripts it can utilise to program other components or display outside telemetry like mavlink...That is what sets openTX apart
We dont need bigger transmitters!! We need small and portable one with small screen and ability to configure it via cell phone. Look at the mavic RC transmitter - that size will be good.
Please please please can you show how to put the firmware onto this tx as there is nothing out there are I know I am not the only one out needing help with this. Keep up the good work
To be honnest, I think quite a lot of people should just stick with the frOS. 80% of pilots won't mis any option, and it's quite a bit more user friendly. Offcourse for people moving into the X10(s) from an openTX transmitter, it's a different story.. Linux & a higher ress screen! Yeahhhh.. I'd be in :)
Now you're talking! :). With Linux we can have real time support, stability, and smarts.. so we can for instance have smart TX's to "auto flight plan" the race using a "smart" quad (smart race quad would need additional sensors - e.g. gps, lidar etc for auto positioning).. then we'd have a race worth watching (double or more crazy speeds! - flown with machine accuracy).
I love my qx7, I upgraded from a dx6e. Spektrum needs to stop following Mac/Apple's business model. The horus is a bit out of my pay grade. Hope it suits you well.
Nice review, I just thought of my first 27mhz 4 channel 35years ago... 😂 But honestly, this is just a design variation of the qx7 and co. There is not really a progress in technology, which would justify this price. I can update my qx7 to hall gimbals for 40 bucks, so why should I pay additional 400 for a colour screen? Four hundred... I have had cars, that have cost less 😂
Hey you have a good point, a windows os built into the radio would be amazing. You could plug your quad into the radio and do everything you normally would do on your laptop!!! Wtf hows that no already a thing!?
Roto Vicious lol u just gave me an idea✌ Im gonna take a raspberry pi with windows and replace my flysky fsi6 screen with an HD screen and split the two screen signals so you can press a button to change from controller settings to windows Would be an awesome kickstarter project😂✌
im waiting on my QX7 in the mail. been using a fs-i6 for over a year now and its time to upgrade to smoother gimbals. the flysky protocol has been very solid and i thank it for its faithful service lol
I'd like it but not at the price tag of the new phones. 300-1,000. usd is too much for me to dish out. I use the flysky i6 upgraded to 10 channel and it works fine.
DroneRacer101 windows would be a nice touch, then you could plug your quad into your radio for tuning. No need to bring a laptop to the field any more. Good point on the crashing, but that could be easily avoided with a dual circuit system. Then if widows crashes it wont effect your flight.
Well, there is always the Turnigy YGT-i10. I see lots of innovation in the price! Maybe that's why it is always sold out. And there is the TBS Tango always looking interesting. Lots of options, dont have to fill FrSky's money tank to the brim.
I fly quad and I am happy with x7 with upgraded gimbals. Too expensive with no extra function and features that I need. It would be nice when manufacturer include a video receiver built-in.
Always the most entertaining knowledge every time. Thank you again AndyRC.
hell ya ! i would love to see transmitters progress. Good Job Andy
I love both!!!!
I Got a QX7 just couldn't beat it for 80 bucks on sale!!
I just saw one for like $65 open box. I should have jumped on it
Really interesting ideas Andy you make some good points thanks👍
27 years? Holy shit. I thought you were way younger than that. Good for you lol
As someone with smaller hands, considering how much power small quads get, can't they do the same with transmitters...Standard shape is fine for pinch flyers I guess, I'm a thumber though and I'm stretching on a taranis. Turnigy evolution did a good job with transmitter design and it is quite natural for anyone who plays video games as its a lot like an xbox pad...it is missing a lot of features though, pretty basic transmitter.
I'm also a bit disapointed frsky are still using a wheel and buttons in 2018...turnigy evo has touch screen and its under £60.
Very well done with your summation about the differences in transmitters and where technology should be, but you make it sound as if the transmitters of today are relics, in this hobby new technology comes with higher prices, so at present since the devices in use are still functional and doing what's necessary they're still good to go. You've been flying a great deal longer than I have, so I respect your expertise in your reviews of the evolution in RC flying.
So my first model was a Veron Robot. A one valve Hill receiver + McGreggor kit transmitter. So get some time in kiddo!!! LOL. I just bought a Horus X10 for my 'me to me ' Christmas present. I've already got an x9. Reason for the upgrade was to fly my 40% scale Fournier RF 4 Motor glider. It is fitted with 2 x X6R receivers, 16 channel redundancy bus, full Gas Suite, air speed, altimeter. Features 70cc NGH petrol, custom made retract, air brakes. Wing tip smoke canisters. Developed with the help of Mick Reeves ( scaled up laser cut parts).
The Horus operating system utilises a Bluetooth function with ' Freelink' app for improved telemetry visualisation to a mobile device ( eg IPod touch) , handled by a copilot! I am about to switch the Horus over to Open TX ( following your very clear explanation on this channel) Do you hnow if this feature will be lost?? I am guessing that it will!
In 1996, why didn't you buy a PCM10? It was only £1000. Maybe we should find out who has been flying R/C the longest. My score is a mere 65 years (1953). Transmitters then used a 120 volt HT battery which was bigger and heavier than a Taranis.
Great video. Good point. Why not Android progressing and smart-phone touch control displays, memory, video recording, etc???
Better With A Drone look at the spektrum one, all what you need
spektrum ix 12 has android
Cory Venezia yes
I think there is one from flysky with android on it
Better With A Drone my buddy has an IX12 and he hates it (and he's die hard Spektrum too). The Android aspect really slows down the radio he tells me, he's even turned off all wireless connectivity on it in an effort to try to get it to work faster. He tells me all his mates in the US with them have Facebook and internet banking apps on them etc and why the heck would you wanna do all that when you're out flying (and I have to agree). I'm not a huge fan of touchscreens myself, yes sure it's nice to have but how many times have you messed up spelling on your smartphone (for example). Andy is right to a degree when he says things have stagnated-all tx's look dated as a rule, the Taranis looks REALLY dated and I've even upgraded the heck out of mine-so yea, maybe it's time to embrace a little change-openTX is getting upgraded all the time so why not upgrade the tx itself to something a bit more modern looking? I have heard though that the screen is a bitch for reflecting sunlight and a matte screen protector is a must.
Very good and interesting approach, master AndyRC. His Highness is supposedly a radio engineer, someone should contact him and give him a mission: Construct a top notch DIY transmitter. I looked inside, it's a printboard and lots of empty space, should be possible :)
another top notch review from andy rc ! cheers !
You are absolutely right...! Transmitters are not keeping up with the advances in the RCVR side components... Imagine the capabilities if they had been keeping up...!
Nice review, can you review the frsky r9 system? Looks like a good alternative to the tbs crossfire but I can't find any reviews on it.
Good video. Interesting logic concerning the battery ...
The Taranis shell is very similar in appearance to the JR XP9303 shell but it's not an exact clone. It's actually the same mould that was used for the the Kingmax T810 FM radio shell. Plastic moulds are hideously expensive and using a pre existing mould allowed FrSky to knock a good chunk of change off the development cost.
Nice same always!
Nice touch with the transmitters. I mostly strugle with the size of them. I guess that DJI is getting close to take over with Occusync. I just saw a quad with Occusync video transmission system. The guy reported that video latency is fine. But if Occusync is able to transmit also controll singnal then it will be huge winner in terms of transportability.
i am waiting more eagerly revolution or some meaningful breakthrough in battery tech. Radio was important in a days of LOS flights with FPV and OSD i hardly watch at it while flying.
What about the Spektrum iX12 12-Channel DSMX Transmitter
Nice review as usual Andy,
Frsky make nice stuff and this does look nice BUT....
It's just too big and heavy these days when I'm flying micro quads and have nice small goggles , then I have to carry around a huge tx ...
thats really nice man no clicking when you press the buttons so smooth...looks like its good quality
I have been looking at this Radio myself. Please do the Firmware vid and keep us updated on your thoughts!
Great to see someone using Mode 1. Thought I was the only one left on the planet. You must be really old.....
27 years of flying? Wow. I thought you were only in your 20s congrats! Awesome radio! Definitely want a tarranis
I think you make a good point here. I would like to have android running on it and have something resembling betaflight configuration going. Lua scrips are cool but so much more could be possible.
good video i see you had crossfire does the x10s need moding to take the crossfire module like the qx7 cheers
I love this radio I have the X7S
Wow. What a great idea
How do you customize the screen with your Andyrc logo or another background?
Frisky should make a mini type of transmitter like a Mavic or spark have
Andy, great video. I agree that transmitter technology has remained stagnate over the years. The X10S is a step in the right direction. I would like to see Betalight run from a high end transmitter. Keep the content coming!
I'd have to say I think the FlySky FS-i10 made some notable advances to separate it from FrSky and all the others (of the past). It's thin and light, very thin and light. It's got a full color touch screen display. It's got an included and swappable lipo that can be charged via micro USB, and without needing to remove it from the TX. It's 3 pots can be recessed to get them out of the way, protect them, and maintain their position. It's only $99 for the TGY-i10 version (better IMO as well). It, or FlySky in general, has the lowest latency than all the others by far... EVEN Crossfire! It uses i-Bus, which is known to be more stable than S-Bus. I will NEVER understand why anyone would choose the bulky, heavy, non-ergonomic, quality-of-life-feature deprived, overpriced, high latency (slow), old/dumb/brick of a TX, unless they absolutely needed a function that is not available on the faster/lighter/smarter/cheaper TGY-i10 (and that is a tall order for a quad to NEED the extra functions like crazy mixing). IMO OFC. ;) Cheers :)
i agree and i think because the pros all go frsky a lot of the bnfs you can get are favoring frsky and that is why im having to invest in their products
AndyRC I think its just name like iphones!!!!!!
FlySky are super nice and as good as frsky but some years ago 1 pilot became a pro with frsky so everybody thinks fs is shit because its cheaper!!!
I Love my X10s..... top notch... not for everyone, but for me, perfect...
Tnx for the replies so far. Cheers mates. :)
Totally agree about the stagnation of any ergonomic design, my old Spektum DX7 sits next to my X9D and they look almost identical. Which is why I bought into the Turnigy Evolution, (a nicely designed little Txwith an amazing range and cost me £30 with an Rx).
But there is so much more that can be done. Redesign the case so it forms to your hand, design it so your thumbs pivot naturally, (we had rotating gimbals in the (80s!), single-stick designs, (perfect for Bruce, I can't understand why he hasn't made one). Wish I was a product design student, there's a wide-open market.
great ideas cheers
i was just thinking along these lines the other night, i'm trying to talk myself into getting a qx7, for two main reasons, a short throw hall effect gimbal on the throttle and the range of receivers frsky offer, not to mention crossfire, but its hard to give up the old flysky i6 and its value and performance, and simple things like one wire from vbat to receiver for voltage telemetry which i think is a vital aspect of quad flying, it tells you about battery health via sag and the simplicity of getting it to work puts frsky to shame. so yeah, radios do need a big jolt to get them to move forward a bit, the legacy options make using a frsky pretty hard, surely its way past the time when we have to decypher the legacy functions and a quad specific set of functions be in their place.
the hobby is still very very niche even with last years boost in numbers, the main thing holding it back are the mystifying terms and protocols and software updates, and the expense. i think even the horus looks like battlestar galactica technology,
i want something with a bit more futuristic styling, and the weight????
Why is the date on the transmitter April 05 2015?
Spektrum iX12 has an Android OS, it's $600 though. I'll stick with my DX9 that I modded with M9 gimbals for now. I hear the FrSky X-lite has 2 internal antennas and an external antenna which has me very curious.
How about betaflight app on a smartphone that bluetooths to the radio or hooks straight into flight controller.
Or use the screen like the TBS radio to fly a micro in the house and not need my googles
The Turnigy Evolution is a good move forwards - as is the new iRangeX multi protocol
Andy,
I totally agree with adding some kind of base operating system! Yuneec's transmitter is based off of Android, which was a great start in my opinion since Android is open source. Like you said if someone would start the movement and community would get behind it you could have beta flight in the field and make all adjustments in the field instead of using a laptop and what not. Anyways maybe we are not too far from that. :) Great Video
now that TBS is putting out great receivers and transmitter modules, I'm assuming they will soon release their own transmitter, which I'm sure will be great. guaranteed it happens this year. 👍
Nice looking RX Andy, great idea about having a screen to see betaflght rather than using smart audio. for my Quads i use the Turnigy Evolution (love it) However when I'm flying my Heli or plane stuff then i use my Futaba.
My Q X7 does it for me but at the fraction of the price :)
Wayyyy tooo expensive for me. This is a hobby. Me and my family can eat for a month for that much money.
This is exaktli what i think..!
Hi. Unfortunately here you can't feed a family for a month on that sort of money. Living costs are much higher. Well done for being able to run the hobby in your economy. Something of a challenge I would guess.
keep an eye out for the upcoming FrSky X-Lite form factor transmitter
I agree we must show we want to move on with our dollars/pounds with in order to progress! Would like to believe one day you could load Android on there like the other new radio out there...when betaflight allows direct communication! Good Joss Andy
Good direction, but the X10S is not there yet. Turnigy evolution had a great idea making the TX more game controller form factor (better ergonomics for control). But the evolution stopped evolving.
How about combine xbox style controller with wearable wireless voice command module with screen that can feed into your goggles through OSD. Voice command to perform non-time critical functions that cannot be mapped easily to control switches (change rates, flaps for fixed wing, etc..)
As we progress in the world of VR interfaces and augmented reality, I think there is a lot yet to come in the area of RC control.
Nice review. A time for a change maybe but I wished you showed us the Fros system it came with and why you wanted to go back to what you are familiar with which is opentx ,,no change. I have been looking for Fros videos but all seem to want the open tx I guess because they are familiar with it and want,,,, no change. Is the 10S factory operating system so bad or different that no one wants to change and go back to open tx? I do have an old JR 9303 that I still use ,,great radio. I do like your work and have for a long time. Are there ANY videos running through and explaining the pros and cons of Frsky Fros?? I am sure many worked hard on this operating system and I for one would like to see what it is about before going back to no change.
Andy you have to get this quad to review. Diatone 2018 GT-M3 Normal Plus 110mm/170mm RC Drone FPV Racing F4 OSD TBS G1 600TVL 20A BLHeli_S PNP
Put a screen protector on it. Like you said. "Just like a phone". X12S protector fits and available cheap.
27 years?! I thought you were like a 20yr old kid😂
most people do which is why i struggle to convince people sometimes :)
AndyRC so, how old are you, if you dont mind me asking.
I experience the oposit. Ppl thinking im 40 when, i'm not Even 30 yet
Hrr Pippi I'm the same but older. I'm in my 40s but people think I'm in my 50s. Damn grey hair! 😠
I went on a diet and started balding in my 20’s
People thought I was dying😂
hahahahahaha lol how cruel hahaha you okay man HIV?? Seen a doctor ahahahahaha....too funny....👍🤘👌✔
You are totally right man I just found my dads old tx from his rc jet days and it’s over 30 years old and looks very modern for its age.. last years motors might as well a decade old in past tech... and I like my Nokia brick!!!! Snake ftw!
yep i agree cheers
have you seen the older multiplex transmitters like the mc3030 ? ; the horus series looks a lot like those.
it does actually yes. almost like a tray transmitter
They are module based and they have a tray with rain cover "spacebox"
2 sticks, switches not much you can do different while it still fits your hands well.
+Andy RC I think all the changes you mentioned would be amazing but the way prices are in this hobby a radio with all that functionality would be unaffordable for most of us in the hobby :(
My original Taranis was pretty well worn out just as they released the X12, I was caught up by the flash and bought a Horus that hangs in my shop with a row of 72mhz Tx.($500 wasted) It's display limits functionality and name lengths (The X10 appears to have the same display and issue).
I rebuilt my old Taranis, and finally bought an X7S, and that's what I use most lately. The scroll wheel won me over, but I wish it had the extra switches. The Taranis is now mostly for my Giant scale gas stuff. Open TX on all.
Wish I could trade my X12 for another Taranis. Or a couple X7S'.
Spektrum has the new "Android Transmitter" and personally, I don't see the need. Simpler is more reliable, and flight requires that, manned or not.
Hey, I thought it was great when they moved away from vacuum tubes in transmitters, like my 1st one had (had to have batteries for the filaments and the plates .. expensive 'dry cells' at that). Yes, I flew on 27mhz when there were only 6 RC channels, and if someone was on your frequency, you had to wait for them to land. Then, they moved everything to 72-75 mhz, and opened up loads of channels, and you'd think you'd never run into the "someone is on my frequency" problem .. but it still happened. So, I'm pretty much "over the moon" with my Taranis 9D+, compared to where I've come from. My 1st car was a 1957 Chevy, and I admit that my 2013 Subaru Legacy is quite a bit more comfortable and has loads more features. However, I could still get from point A to point B efficiently with both. Perhaps when A.I. gets to the point where you can give verbal commands to your transmitter, it will be of some significance. Cheers!
thats a good point Bill. I do love the X9D but i think as someone else mentioned. you can take a flight controller or motor from 6 months ago and its old newa, I think in comparison the TX side of things is stalling and perhaps they are even missing a trick. cheers
Yea, Taranis should have android or windows its a favorite brand and should keep up with the new spectrum model
Agree 100% Andy!!!
you seen the new spectrum x12 with android screen that works with beta flight n keep up the good work bro
I just got a x10s please do a open tx video
The model looks tempting but I won't upgrade until FRSKY bring out one with FPV screen like the Devo f12e or Android screen or capability to connect to my phone.
Believe it or not Spektrum has a radio coming out that does basically everything you are talking about. To include native Betaflight support and android functionality. I cant believe it either but I just watched a video on it about a month and a half ago. Maybe you can get a sample when it comes out....
And I thought I was an old fart... I still have some old fm stuff. Remember swapping crystals?
Wow - £331! Not sure where they get their prices from. All for moving on, Andy but I’m sure you mentioned Windows. Imagine in the middle of a long flight getting the message “Ctrl/Alt/Del to reboot.....”
Gotta disagree this time! Change for the sake of change.. not my thing. Build quality looks nice, but the form factor itself isn't anything to write home about - just another massive box.
If the thing did in fact run Android (like the ix12) then maybe I'd see the value. If it were smaller than other transmitters, or otherwise more ergonomic then yes I'd see the value. As is though, I'd just as gladly use an X7 or X9d.
I think it's a pity we cannot use that screen as FPV video feed, really a lost chance for FRSKY. I'm in this moment thinking of buying tomorrow another X9D Plus SE or a Horus X10s and apart from the price and gimbals I dont see any big change. I really would like to convince myself on buying tomorrow a X10S but that radio is doing nothing more of a X9D. Anyway, happy problems I suppose...
Dude.. You just blew my mind with adding android and having betaflight right on the transmitter. You may have just changed the industry for the better. Keep it up. Always enjoined your reviews..
i agree that right there is innovation! i only really just got the qx7 and thought it was future proof but fc software on the transmitter omg .how about a link to your'e goggles built in dvr that overlays ur stick inputs into your vids for you!
would also like to augmented reality on goggles that overlays a track and gates into youre video feed in a predetermined area. sod all this setting up and packing down and expensive gates just a bit of software that works with the fc and googles somehow
Spektrum makes a surface radio with Android www.spektrumrc.com/Products/Default.aspx?ProdID=SPM6410 . Air version coming this year I believe.
spektrum have just done the android thing look up IX12
Ahh, I missed the release of this. Cool.
Having Betaflight on my transmitter would be amazing! Great idea! Till then, its Taranis all the way!
You work with the overseas guys and you could make the "andyrc" transmitter! Id buy one!
haha that would be awesome
The industry is moving so fast that it's difficult to pay top dollar just to find out that something better, more suited to your needs, was released while you are waiting for yours to arrive in the male. I bit the bullet on the taranis X9D plus and the SE version comes out. Now FrSky has a new one, the FrSky X-LITE. This is ridiculous!
I would always think, "Andy is a smart kid." turns out you are as old as me lol
I'm 'm with ya Andy!! Nice radio!! Like it! So have you heard what is the deal with this other new FrSky I see or did see advertised but have not seen it in the storefronts yet? Did it cease to be or did they make this one instead? For it was more like the Turnigy Evo, and I am STILL even though they are probably making a new version of it as well for I did see that the price of them at Hobby King has came down to a little over fifty USD or so...But I think that is just a good value and should just go ahead and get one of this model for MANY liked it a lot, I know it is no Taranis and does not have voice and things reason I wish to try it is for the comfort for I am a thumber lol and though not a gamer at all still think maybe this type would be good? And at the lowered price well worth it, as I like IBUS as well although it will not replace my X9D, and I probably will not want to spend whatever Turnigy replaces it with if it is not a huge advancement, the Evo that is out now is one I just want to give a shot, but the new FrSky was "spose" to me more like that, a game controller type BUT has the voice and even module bay so thought THAT IS MY NEXT TRANSMITTER!! FOR SURE!! But have not seen anymore about it anywhere?? If you have any info PLEASE disclose!! hahahaa I really was hyped and excited for this new FrSky and was hoping it was not going to cost the $999 that many had it advertised at haha and did find it for under a hundred dollars somewhere as the estimated price for I guess no one really knew what the price tag would be/ Please fill me in when you get chance I seriously would like to know if it is not happening or what? For holding off on the Evo for if this new FrSky is that type but with all the X9D features as voice etc...I GOTTA HAVE ONE!!! Thanks! Keep up the awesome good work!!! -Turbo.
The horus or frsky OS is already just a custom lite version of openTX. FrSky OS does everything 99% of people need just like any other branded radio. Where it comes in to its own is all the lua scripts it can utilise to program other components or display outside telemetry like mavlink...That is what sets openTX apart
I would think the screen would have fpv option.
We dont need bigger transmitters!! We need small and portable one with small screen and ability to configure it via cell phone. Look at the mavic RC transmitter - that size will be good.
Sleeeek lookin' them gimballs, mmm :)
Please please please can you show how to put the firmware onto this tx as there is nothing out there are I know I am not the only one out needing help with this. Keep up the good work
the software is much better now as well
I like your ideas Andy but price needs to drop to more like the QX7 with any "upgrade" of the future. The Horus is a joke!
To be honnest, I think quite a lot of people should just stick with the frOS. 80% of pilots won't mis any option, and it's quite a bit more user friendly.
Offcourse for people moving into the X10(s) from an openTX transmitter, it's a different story..
Linux & a higher ress screen! Yeahhhh.. I'd be in :)
Now you're talking! :). With Linux we can have real time support, stability, and smarts.. so we can for instance have smart TX's to "auto flight plan" the race using a "smart" quad (smart race quad would need additional sensors - e.g. gps, lidar etc for auto positioning).. then we'd have a race worth watching (double or more crazy speeds! - flown with machine accuracy).
ROFL I have the exact same Futaba radio and I never really used it. Like new in it's case.
Also I had no idea you have been flying for 27 years!
I love my qx7, I upgraded from a dx6e. Spektrum needs to stop following Mac/Apple's business model. The horus is a bit out of my pay grade. Hope it suits you well.
Yes
If you want more 2 position switches then swap them out and amend the programming. Its one of the advantages of the Taranis/Horus etc.
Nice review, I just thought of my first 27mhz 4 channel 35years ago... 😂
But honestly, this is just a design variation of the qx7 and co. There is not really a progress in technology, which would justify this price. I can update my qx7 to hall gimbals for 40 bucks, so why should I pay additional 400 for a colour screen? Four hundred... I have had cars, that have cost less 😂
I forgot. Futaba runs Windows.
like the x10s, but try Spektrum iX12
migth check it up the new spektrum tx with android
Hey you have a good point, a windows os built into the radio would be amazing. You could plug your quad into the radio and do everything you normally would do on your laptop!!! Wtf hows that no already a thing!?
this is my thinking :)
Roto Vicious lol u just gave me an idea✌
Im gonna take a raspberry pi with windows and replace my flysky fsi6 screen with an HD screen and split the two screen signals so you can press a button to change from controller settings to windows
Would be an awesome kickstarter project😂✌
Not really much changes, I think I shouldn't upgrade my transmitter
have u seen the spektrum dx 12 or 15 it has a android as it screen u can go on you tube and betaflight and facebook and google
yes i think it could give frsky the push or... make us all switch :)
Cory Venezia why do you wanna go on Facebook on your TX???? Isn't it supposed to be for flying🤷♂️
Agree. I still think smaller would be better.
Interesting thoughts!!
Spektrum is releasing a 12ch.android connected radio,catch is its $600 usd
yes this is why im hoping frsky will concentrat their future on matching this for a better price
Why is no one using flysky transmitters ?
they are :) its just that frsky is very popular and im starting to wonder why
I do, I have the FS-I6X best budget trans available 1+ mile range and telemetry.
AndyRC yeah, but if you look to like fs i10 it looks awesome and no one uses that
sptrader yeah I have i6
im waiting on my QX7 in the mail. been using a fs-i6 for over a year now and its time to upgrade to smoother gimbals. the flysky protocol has been very solid and i thank it for its faithful service lol
Too bad that all FrSKY transmitters (bar the X9D) are not comfortable for pinchers. The square looks might be modern, but they are not ergonomic. :(
I'd like it but not at the price tag of the new phones. 300-1,000. usd is too much for me to dish out. I use the flysky i6 upgraded to 10 channel and it works fine.
Ok, convince me. :-)
Oh man, no Android or Windows. The radio need to be rock steady and not crash.
DroneRacer101 windows would be a nice touch, then you could plug your quad into your radio for tuning. No need to bring a laptop to the field any more. Good point on the crashing, but that could be easily avoided with a dual circuit system. Then if widows crashes it wont effect your flight.
iv actually had open tx crash on me a few times, but as long as the controls still work...
Roto Vicious wit the new luas, you can tune pretty much everything on the field
Well, there is always the Turnigy YGT-i10. I see lots of innovation in the price! Maybe that's why it is always sold out. And there is the TBS Tango always looking interesting. Lots of options, dont have to fill FrSky's money tank to the brim.