Best Spektrum controller for gimbal operation?

[Josh Becker]

I have a Helix, which I believe is made to work with only Spektrum controllers. I am looking for a controller to use with a second operator as well has using the Helix as a remote pan/tilt head.

I'm trying to do some research online about the differences in the models, but everything I find is heavily focused on RC airplane/copter control and not for gimbal use.

I'm just curious if there is any need for a higher-end model compared to a very basic controller. If I'm primarily doing pan/tilt control, I assume I'd be fine with the basic dirt-cheap Spektrum D5e ($60), but I just don't want to buy that one to find out that a different model would be better.

Any tips or advice?

 

[Michael Hastings]

I have the same question

 

[Josh Becker]

Right now I'm leaning toward the DX6i ($129 on Amazon) instead of the cheapo DX5e, some of the reviews talked about the cheap model having a flaky power button or that some pieces broke easily on it. I also saw in Letus' RC controller video that they used the trim switches to account for any pan/tilt/horizon drifting, which I don't think the DX5e has digital trim (from one write-up I saw on model differences).

Oh, and I noticed that Letus' site says the Helix will work with any DSM2 controller. But I'm leaning toward the Spektrum still, since it's one of the bigger names I've seen out there for controllers (hopefully better support, more people to have suggestions, tips, etc)

 

[Enrique Blein]

+1 Also interested in this...

 

[Matthew B]

I have a DX 6i that Is paired with my helix. I also use it to fly small helicopters...

You can pretty much get whatever spektrum radio you want - the more expensive ones just have more memory banks and easier UIs to switch between which model presets you are using - which if you are only using the remote with your helix, you will only need one model "preset" stored in your radio.

From memory at my keyboard - pan tilt and roll - are covered by three of the four control actions of the joysticks. All the switches, etc aren't needed - but can be programmed to change speed/velocity/etc.

 

[Hal Long]

+1 on the DX 6i. I use it with my Helix and it does everything you'd need. Getting the DX 8 won't get you any add'l features. The next step up would be an RC wheels set up but last time I checked they're ~$3K+.

 

[Nick Gardner]

This is the classiest system I have seen. Looks like it would turn a Movi into an actually serious hot head.

http://shop.plcelectronicsolutions.com/categories/VERACITY-CONTROL-WHEELS/?sort=pricedesc

Nick

 

[Josh Becker]

Haha oh man, those wheels look nice... but a little too rich for my blood!

Thanks for the tips, guys. I'm going to go ahead and order the DX6i. I think it will be worth the extra $60 just to have a better build quality of the controller.

 

[Nick Gardner]

You may want to google "curves" and "Expo" on those radios. Now a'days almost all radios have dual rates and expo, but it's good to check. Those allow you to have two different speeds set for pan and tilt with a switch to switch between them, sort of high and low, and expo deadens the stick around the center to your taste. Those features can let you operate better particularly if you aren't familiar with operating from a joystick.

Nick