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May 22, 2013, 9:36 a.m.
5/23/2013By Mike Garrison
LiveRC.com
Whether it's wheel nuts, wings, tools, tracks, trinkets and/or anything in between, the LiveRC staff gives their testimonial and mini-review of each every Thursday morning!
Spektrum DX3R Pro Racing System
$339.99
When it comes to controlling an R/C car, we are very picky about not only the performance, but also the overall feel, functions, and versatility. We recently got our hands on the Spektrum DX3R Pro Racing System. This is the latest in the Spektrum racing series lineup of radios, and includes an SR3100 receiver. Right out of the box, the first thing we noticed is how light weight the radio is. We definitely like the drop-down wheel, as opposed to the standard wheel on the original DX3R, as it gives a more "natural" feel to radio instead of feeling so awkward. We were not fans of the grey coloring and/or the stock wheel, but we do like the overall appearance and styling of the DX3R Pro, as has a different look than the other radios on the market.
The DSM2 radio system is very fast, and reliable. In the past we have struggled with glitching, fail-safes, and various other issues using other radios on the market at our local track which is covered by a metal building. The DX3R Pro shows no sign of glitching, fail-safe shutting down, or any other problems running indoors, outdoors, hot, cold, or even in the rain.
The menu system on the DX3R Pro is very simple which makes it easy to learn and use. Adjustments can be made very quickly without having to fight through menus and sub-menus. With a 50-model memory, we are almost guaranteed to never run out of space for new cars.
Pros:
- Very lightweight.
- Features drop down wheel assembly.
- Can be converted for left hand steering.
- DSM2 is very fast and reliable.
- Menu system is easy to learn and use.
Cons:
- The grey plastic appearance isn't our favorite, however, a custom LiveRC radio skin from Upgrade RC was an easy fix for that.
- The stock wheel and foam has a "spongey" feeling, which we replaced using the Dynamite custom BBS steering wheel which features a firmer foam and a more stylish appearance.
Conclusion:
Overall we recommend the DX3R Pro Racing System to any level of racer, beginner to pro. The system features the simplicity and price range that beginners are looking for, while also providing the performance and versatility for the pros. With a few extra bucks spent to get the radio looking and feeling the way we personally like, we are very happy with the end results.
Beacon Rating: 4/5
$219.99
Whether you are an offroad, onroad, crawler, bike, or any other form of R/C enthusiast, at some point you will have to charge your batteries. Even nitro cars require batteries, which require a charger. When it comes to charging, it seems like there is never enough time and far too many dead batteries. We picked up the Hitec X4 AC/DC charger to help keep up with our high demand of battery charging needs.
The Hitec X4 has a built in power supply, which eliminates the hassle of carrying a separate power supply, and can charge up to four battery packs at a time. The charger features charge programs for NiCd, NiMh, Li-Ion, LiPo, LiFe, and Pb battery packs. Each port will charge at a max of six amps, which is less than some single port chargers, but with the ability to charge four packs at once we found five amps per pack is more than enough to keep us running all day long.
The Hitec X4 is heavier and more bulky than your average charger, however, it is FAR LESS heavy and bulky than carrying around four separate battery chargers and power supply.
Getting all setup to charge, and working through the charge menus is relatively simple and easy to figure out. The easy to read instructions make it easy to get all setup and charging right away. When your battery charge is complete, the alarm sounds at an alarming (but not annoying) level to let you know that it's done.
Pros:
- Charges up to four packs at once.
- Light weight for the amount of functions capabilities it offers.
- Built in power supply eliminates the hassle of hauling a separate power supply.
- Charges NiCd, NiMh, Li-Ion, LiPo, LiFe, and Pb batteries
- Charging alarm is loud enough to alert you, but not loud enough to irritate your neighbors.
Cons:
- Only charges up to 6 amps per port.
Conclusion:
For those who have lots of batteries and like to run battery pack after pack, the Hitec X4 is an excellent choice of a charger to keep you all charged up and running all day long!
Beacon Rating: 5/5
THURSDAY TESTIMONIALS - RANDOM ITEM OF THE WEEK:
Each week outside of the R/C world we test out and use a variety of items in our daily routines that have absolutely nothing to do with R/C, and THIS is what we think of them!
Unlisted Men's Watch
$29.98
There is nothing that says "This guy has swag!" more than an enormous watch strapped to your arm. The problem is finding an enormous, abnoxious watch that looks like a million bucks, but doesn't cost an arm and a leg. Take a look around, some of the greatest role models and idols on the planet wear giant oversized watches. Don't believe me, take a look...
First up is Hugh Hefner. Wearing his black elastic band watch, he has become one of the oldest men on earth to still host nude parties at his house on a weekly basis. Next in line is Ron Burgundy. Wearing his flashy gold watch, he is among one of the most famous fictional news anchors in history AND saved Veronica Corningstone from a grizzly bear. Last but not least is Rooster Cogburn from True Grit. This guy isn't even wearing a watch, he's just that cool.
With all of that being said, while strolling through Macy's at our local mall I stumbled across the men's watches. There in front of my eyes was an enormous watch, which was glowing with super swag points, and had a price tag of only $29.98. I couldn't pass up the opportunity, and purchased it no questions asked.
Turns out the watch features buttons on the side, which don't actually do anything, and the grey background and grey dials make telling the time impossible, BUT it sure does look good.
Pros:
- Instant swag at a cheap price.
- Giant visual clock.
- Shiny silver buttons.
Cons:
- Made of silicon rubber, so if you want it to make a jingle noise like an expensive watch, you have to make the noises yourself while shaking your wrist.
- The giant visual clock is the same color as the dials, so you can't really tell time.
- The shiny silver buttons don't actually do anything.
Conclusion:If your looking to be a rockstar, but spend very little money in doing so...this is the answer! Just hope no one asks you what time it is, because you'll never know.
Beacon Rating: 5/5
(While this is a 2/5 watch in the performance department, its looks instantly boost it to a 5/5.)
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