Help Me Decide On A Radio

[AzMandella]

Since I am getting back into RC Boating I am going to need a new radio . Of course I want to get one that will be capable of advancing as I do . Not a cheapy that will have to be replaced . Is there any reason to get a 4ch radio unless it's because of better technology than what is in the 3ch's . From what I am seeing most brands , Futaba , Spektrum , and Sanwa system features are geared more towards RC Cars . Also does Futaba make a waterproof receiver ? I cannot find any mention of that spec on any of their receivers on their website . While Spektrum and Sanwa do . Any and all input would be great .

 

[SayMikey]

Check out Futabas 4pm and 7px. The 3pv is a great no frills radio as well

 

[Greg Wannamaker]

I love my Futaba 4GRS, easy to use, does everything you could want it to.

 

[Brandon Atwell]

Futaba does not make a waterproof servo, but I can recommend using something to “waterproof” them. I’ve used Corrosion X, pull apart the body and coat the board, and have been lucky not to lose any of my box did happen to leak.
I think there is a true water proofing spray for electronics but I can’t remember the name.
I do this process to servos also, but Hitec and Savox offer waterproof servos.
I prefer the 4PM radio because of the placement of switches for 3rd channel. If you don’t plan on using a third channel needle the 3PV is a great system.

 

[AzMandella]

I really want to have a waterproof receiver . I already plan on using Savox servos . I like the fact that you can place servos and receiver in different places and not have to use a radio box .

 

[SayMikey]

What ever you use for a receiver you will need it in a waterproof box

 

[AzMandella]

Ok after some thought and research I have come to this conclusion . Since SayMikey says I will have to have a waterproof box regardless of receivers . I have decided on the Futaba 4PM . But there is a choice of two receivers . Does anyone know the difference between the R304SB and the R334SBS . I know the 334 has the High Speed Response System but is it necessary for boats or just a car thing ?

 

[Terry Keeley]

Whatever you choose remember there's only one brand when it comes to r/c boat radios:

FU - TA - BA

Just like Levis make jeans, Nike makes running shoes and Ray Ban make sun glasses.

I don't make the rules...

 

[Grimracer]

334SBS ONLY!

The 304 is not a diversity RX.. you want Diversity!...

Also.. if you order from FUTBA USA please consider having them add the 400mm antenna to it. Its worth it!

Grim

 

[Carl Van Houten]

Are these new radios coming with a variable 3rd channel knob or is it just a switch?

 

[Brandon Atwell]

Are these new radios coming with a variable 3rd channel knob or is it just a switch?

Don’t have the radio in front of me, but I’m pretty certain the 4PM knobs can be programmed to third channel needle operation Carl!

 

[Carl Van Houten]

 

[John Beardslee]

Are these new radios coming with a variable 3rd channel knob or is it just a switch?

Carl the 4pm has both bump switches in various locations as well as a knobs. Each can be programmed to the 3rd channel. I set mine up on one of the pistol grip bump switches and then I adjust the trim step so that each time I bump the switch it moves the needle 1 increment on my flow meter, bump left for lean and right for rich.
My thumbs aren’t always flexible so I now program 2 switches for 3rd channel control, one on the pistol grip and one by the wheel, I can use which ever feels best.
Thanks John

 

[Grimracer]

Carl,

take a moment..

https://futabausa.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/4pm-e.pdf

 

[Carl Van Houten]

I had been told by someone that it did not have an adjustable rate for the 3rd needle and have not bothered to check. I thought that did not sound right. Thanks.

 

[Walt Barney]

334SBS ONLY!

The 304 is not a diversity RX.. you want Diversity!...

Also.. if you order from FUTBA USA please consider having them add the 400mm antenna to it. Its worth it!

Grim

Mike
What is the difference, and what does the diversity do that the other one does not???
Thanks
Walt Barney

 

[Grimracer]

Thanks for asking Walt..

two antennas -vers- one..

IF.. if .. you are going to use a 304 (non diversity) I would without question have the 400mm antenna installed.
IF.. if you might choose a "Diversity" RX like the 334 or the like.. its less important BUT.. its a good idea to properly install the RX.. label facing up!

I use 400mm antennas on all my marine installs now regardless of RX choice.

Just so you know.. this is nothing new.. remember the FF vers FS on the Fasst systems?.. same thing.. FS is a Diversity RX..

NOTE: All Futaba RX that are Diversity RXs SAY Diversity on them!

In the end.. its about signal performance. Range is self not the issue but couple that with, carbon fiber parts, tuned pipes and rooster tails of water and well.. for the extra cost.. it just makes sense!

Grim

 

[AzMandella]

Ok so what battery pack would a person use with a 334 RX ?

 

[John Beardslee]

Ok so what battery pack would a person use with a 334 RX ?

I prefer the LiFe 6.6 volt packs, compatible with most all servos. Size ie: mah depends on boat size. 700 mah = 21, 1100 mah= 46, 1500 mah = 90 and 2- 1500 mah in the twin. All LiFe packs require a battery charger compatible with that chemistry.
Thanks John

 

[Grimracer]

agree.. LiFE.. MAKE SURE ITS 10C.. regardless of the MAH...

Grim