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| Issue 100 (March 2004) |
Words: Derek Buono |
Many people can claim having a Futaba Magnum radio as their first radio. The original radio was high quality and full of features like trim knobs and even servo reversing (remember when that was an option?). For the first time in a while, the mid-level Futaba line of radios gets an upgrade. The current generation of RCers that will experience the Magnum radio for the first time will be treated to a list of features that not only looks good on paper, but also feels good in your hands. And servo reversing comes standard!
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Features
• Large LCD Screen--The current trend is digital screens and controls, and the 2PL delivers on a large LCD screen. It's easy to read, and none of the characters are distorted.
• One-Button Selection--The 2PL simplifies the menu navigation with one large "Select" button. At first, I thought that the button was the only thing you need, but you actually use the steering and throttle trim tabs to adjust the functions once they are selected.
• 10-Model Memory--For those of us with multiple cars, the 2PL can store the settings for 10 different models, and you can name each, as long as the name is three characters long.
• Digital Trims--All the setting are saved digitally, and you adjust the trims with three toggle switches, one for the steering, throttle, and dual rate features.
• ABS--The radio includes an ABS feature that pulsates the braking function in one of three rates.
• End Point Adjustment (EPA)--One of the best features is EPA. This allows you to limit servo travel in both directions independently. It also has dual rate, which limits travel in both directions
Testing
I do the same thing to every radio I test. I pull it out of the box and wiggle everything I can on the radio. Whatever comfort/ergonomic test you call this, it gives a good idea as to how solid the radio feels. Both the steering and throttle spring rates feel good. The feel of the radio is of higher quality. The plastic is a rich black, and nothing feels hollow when you reach the end of travel. This is a great quality to have in a budget-oriented radio. Turning the radio on, I got a chance to experience the LCD and the information it displays. The default screen displays the model number and the current voltage. You can program a name for up to 10 models, but it's limited to three characters. Once installed, the stock servos will work well in most electric vehicles. Ours came with the Futaba MC230, a great little ESC and a good buy even when you buy them together. I didn't run into any problem with interference, and the only thing I could think that would have made this a better radio is a third channel. Futaba just released a radio aimed at T-Maxxers and other monster trucks that use a third channel. One other thing that bugged me is that the fact that the ad for this radio implied that you need only that one button. This isn't true. You actually have to use the trim tabs, but the one button does make for a cleaner look.
Conclusion
My first pistol grip was a Magnum Jr. and back then, it was a great low-priced radio. The new 2PL retains the quality and performance of the original. There are a few ways to get your 2PL, and even at the most expensive place, with the ESC, you get a great radio with a decent list of features. Sure, we wish it was FM, but we wish all radios were, and for an AM budget radio, we like this one.
The single button is high-lighted in chrome.
An impressive list of features for a budget AM radio.
Part Number FUTK03 includes the items shown. Also available are FUTK01 with the receiver and one 3003 servo, and FUTK02 with receiver and two 3003 servos.
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HITS
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Great feel.
Good list of features for the price.
Easy menu navigation.
Good choice for a first radio.
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MISSES
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No third-channel limits current monster truck applications.
Cool one-button features needs more than one button.
MANUFACTURER: Futaba
PHONE: 217.398.0007
ADDRESS: Great Planes , P.O. Box 9021, Champaign, IL 61826-9021
PART NUMBER(S): FUTL03 - 1 Servo and ESC
STREET PRICE: $140
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