Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)I upgraded to this radio from a DX8. The A9 is a sensational radio, the DX8 was disappointing to say the least--plus the DX8 suffered from numerous quality defects - repeated software errors and outright failures, battery failure,major stick centering inconsistency (3-5 clicks of trim off after each aileron movement), and the last straw: receiver brownouts causing three catastrophic crashes.
The A9 is a dream. The huge touchscreen LCD is very quick and easy to program, and it has two to three times the programming prowess of the DX8 depending on the mode. The Tx batteries are a 6-cell vs a 4-cell. Switches are easier to reach, easier to assign, have more programming options, and are more varied in their function and are more numerous. 9 channels is nice.
The biggest advantage of Hitec over Spectrum is receiver and link quality. The plane is glued to the stick movement, with no latency. Even the DX8+AR8000 has a noticeable delay, while the DX8 is too delayed for comfort with older receivers. The link is frequency agile and seems much stronger. I have never seen the A9 link glitch, whereas the DX8 link would noticeably glitch the plane too often. Relink speed is instant, vs very slow with the DX8, so you don't crash if the battery voltage sags momentarily.
Hitec receivers all include up to three redundant power supplies: ESC, SPC, and they include a dedicated power pack. Spectrum only includes ESC Rx power, so if either your battery sags or your ESC hiccups, your airplane is lost. Hitec Rx SPC input is a great feature that powers only the Rx (not the motor or servos) from any power source up to 35v, so you can attach a very light second Lipo to ensure the Rx stays awake. Hitec receivers also give you a fail safe mode: programmable default servo positions upon a lost link. All A9 receivers are 2048 resolution. Finally, all A9 receivers have built in voltage telemetry, so there is no need to add the weight or expense of a third party telemetry system, or the very inconvenient and expensive Spectrum TM1000 with its even more expensive compatible receivers. To add insult to injury, Hitec Rxs are more affordable.
A9 ergonomics are perfect. Sticks are closer to the grips and switches are much easier to find by feel and also give audible position feedback. The LCD stays backlit and doesn't wear the battery down quickly.
Overall, the A9 an amazing value. Improved control of your plane will surprise you if you are used to the comparatively hazy DX8/AR8000 feel. Current price is about $200 lower than a DX8, as you get more channels plus three far superior receivers, two 9ch and a 7ch each with voltage telemetry, with the current mail-in promotion.
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Aurora 9 2.4GHz Transmitter, Optima 9 ReceiverThe Aurora 9 is a "pure digital" 2.4GHz system offering an extrememly low latency response time for that "connected" feeling. Featuring a large backlit 5.1 inch touch screen display, 30 model memory, assignable switches, and customizable programming menus, the Aurora 9 is a true 3 in 1 radio with sophisticated programming for sail planes, helicopters, and all kinds of power planes. With all these features, there is no doubt the Aurora 9 will become the radio of choice for the most sophistcated pilots. Basic Features: • AFHSS 2.4GHz / PPM Compatible • Easy to read, easily accessible 5.1 inch wide touch LCD backlit display • Customizable Menu • One-stop model type setting • 3 Multi-tasking digital trims • Fill-sized comfortable hand grip • Fully assignable control switches, sliders, stick, and digital adjusters • Highly sensitive quad ball-bearing gimbals • Super-Easy gimbal mode change / tension adjustment • Selectable mode 1, 2, 3, 4 and 2 custom • Power management system • Digital trim nano-adjuster AFHSS with Smart Scan - Rock solid, interference-free performance Hitec's 2.4GHz Spread Spectrum system utilizes the latest Adaptive Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (AFHSS) technology and the exclusive Smart Scan system to ensure a rock solid, interference free connection between the transmitter and receiver. When selected, Hitec's 2.4GHz Smart Scan function scans the 2.4GHz specturm to find the cleanest channels in which to operate thereby providing interference free operation even in the most crowded environments Boosted Omni Directional Antenna (BODA) The Optima 2.4GHz line of receivers feature Hitec's exclusive BODA receiver technology. Independent tests have proven that the single BODA system in Hitec's 6 and 7 chan
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