Newb question: Get an E5 or no?

[skyrockit]

Dear Pilots,

I am new to the forum and new to RC Helis (but not brand new), so hello everyone.

I have some time on the simulator (Phoenix 5) and with my Blade MSR and SR 120 and I am really hooked on this sport. However I am really itching to get a proper collective pitch hell, but I want something good. I have read tons of forum posts on other sites; watched build videos; looked at manufacturers sites and e-stores etc and generally read up as much as possible about this fascinated hobby. I am thinking 500-550 size for stability and so I can see it in the sky.

Align seems to be a large and very popular manufacturer that make countless models for all budgets. However my tendency is not always to follow the norm and if I find something better, I go with that. I like good quality stuff whatever I buy. I am budget conscious, but I am not cheap. I am happy to pay for better quality stuff within means.

I love Synergy helis and the E5 in particular and I can really appreciate the quality of design engineering and materials that have gone into it. I am a designer myself (interiors and architecture) so I am drawn to quality products and the small details. I like that the E5 can grow into a 600 size and it has different motor/battery options.

My burning question is: Is it a totally ridiculous idea to attempt to build/fly a professional Heli like the Synergy E5 for my first 'proper' hell - if I take it easy, and install training gear/dumb down the settings etc? I know a lot of people will say no and start with something small and cheap, but I understand that with an ikon FBL system, it may be set up for a beginner with a self leveling feature if things get out of control etc?

If anyone agrees with this concept, what would you recommend for an electronics package?

(BTW, I also really like the idea of the N5C, but I may just be getting out of my depth here).

Thank you.

Rob

[dpelletier]

The main difference is that if/when you crash, bigger is more expensive.

Personally I think it is a good idea.
Chris Sexton has a good video series on building the E5, as well as setting up the Ikon fbl
Take your time, read, ask questions, watch videos, practice on the sim.

It can be done, I know first hand. It took me a few months over a winter to build my first heli. Was another high quality brand.

If you have someone local that can assist you would be a good thing.

[Chris Wall]

As dpelletier said, crash cost on a larger heli are definitely more costly.  Parts come one to a purchase normally, whereas with a smaller bird sometimes gears, etc come 3 in a pack...  With that said, I wish I had started with a 500-550 size heli after the micros, the bigger ones are so much more stable than the 450 class.  I can't tell you home many times I crashed my poor 450 learning because I would just loose it anytime a little stick input was wrong, trying to keep it high i would loose orientation!  Only other thing with bigger helis is you need more room to fly them.  Remember not too long ago, most folks had to learn on a 50 size nitro...

[curmudgeon]

The 550 size heli is generally the largest size helicopter folks routinely fly aggressively on a single LiPo battery.  The options in this size class include the Synergy E5, Goblin 570, Align T-Rex 550, KDS Agile 5.5, Gaui X5, Blade 550X, Mikado Logo 550, and others.  The Synergy E5 is advertised as a true 550 size.  Some of the other brands like Align have several editions of their 550 size class which may cause some confusion when choosing compatible replacement parts and/or upgrades.

Some brands sell as combo kits with electronics where you just have to add your own radio and batteries.  They seem like a great bargain initially, but the price tag quickly goes up when you account for hard to resist upgrades and improvements.

Although the Synergy E5 benefits from a few aftermarket improvements and bling that are readily available, the stock kit comes with high quality components, and it has optimal head and tail geometry for the more sophisticated FBL units.  The manual is fairly complete, and it includes part numbers.  Synergy customer service is also superb; you can communicate with real Synergy experts and even Matt himself with whatever questions or concerns you may run into.

So, if you are looking for a high quality and customizable 550 size helicopter experience, you can't go wrong with the Synergy E5.

[dbrc]

The E5 is very stable and predictable. Being fairly new myself, it is my favorite heli and I have a 600 and 700 [other brands]. This thing is very well engineered and built strong, takes crashes well as you can see if you look it up. Not many people would recommend learning on a 550 heli but if you can afford it and want the best,go for it. 

[Greg Jackson]

This is truly a superb helicopter.  The materials used are second to none.  After building a few other brands, I saw the difference on my first Synergy build.  You should still watch the videos from Chris Sexton and seek aid from an experienced builder just to be safe.  When I built my E5 I did not consider myself a master builder, yet I was surprised by how easy the build was compared to other helis I built. Plus, we are all here to help you with any questions!

[skyrockit]

Thanks guys. All good and useful information. I still like the E5 having read tons of info, looked at pictures and watched Chris Sexton's build videos. My nearest dealer is FBL Rotors in WA.

What I need to do now is come up with a parts list for the electronics. As far as the FBL system, I have been reading about the merits of the Ikon system with its self leveling feature, which could come in handy!

Also need to figure out what radio to go for. I only have a Spektrum DX6i which I don't think will work. Don't want to break the bank for the radio if I can help it but I know it's important.

Cheers.

[Chris Sexton]

The DX6i will work with some fbl systems although a 7 channel is preferred. You can find good deals on Spektrum radios. I actually have a like new DX7s (the newest version) that I am going to be selling.

The DX9 is a darn good looking radio!  Of course there are other brands. I am partial to Futaba myself.

Sent from my SM-N900V using Tapatalk

[Cliff Chmiel]

I have been using the dx8 with 2 sats on the ikon working great

[kuss.72]

I don't know what the ikon flys like but have flown a fbl unit were u can set it as self leveling and/or set it to right it's self in the up right position, fun to play with and would benefit you and keep cost of repairs down.

[Roger]

About the only drawback to the DX6i is the switches.  They are not programmable and they are all just two positions only.

If you only want two head speeds the radio will work just fine with the E5 in beginner flight mode setup. 

I moved up to a DX9 from my DX6i and it is a dream come true.  The 6i is much easier to program, but once you get the 9 programmed it is just nirvana.  if you can possibly swing it budget wise the 9 would be the way to go. Most of the switches are three position and all are programmable.  The voice is nice to have as well.

ROG

[John Jackson]

you won't be sorry getting the E5. I run mine in the standard configuration not stretched. At that size I can go to a local fun fly that may have a smaller field and feel like I have room to fly. Also the 550 size flies way bigger than a 500 class. 

[Barry Tilson]

Just put 24 flights on mine this weekend! Love it!

[smokeeater908]

I love my E5, i have mine stretched and it is swinging 626 Rails and it really gives it a larger presence in the sky. Love it love it and did I mention love it. LOL!

[Kevin Feil]

Rob,

 Like the guys said, you can't go wrong with the E5.. When this model dropped it was evident that it was going to be the nucleus of modifications. This Heli is like buying an extra pair of long pants, you have the ability to grow into the E5 which in turn can be converted into many different classes. I have owned a few and absolutley love this machine. Rob Cherry morfed one into one kick ass light 700 class bird. It really has the capability of being taylored to just about anything you want. I even stuffed one into an 600 size Airwolf as well as did a fellow Team member.

 Personally for me the Futaba 14 SG is the way to go regarding radio equipment. And my E5 flew outstanding with the CGY 750 in it.. However this is my opinion and the best part about it is you are coming into the hobby where there has been huge advancements in technology regarding FBL Units and Radio/receiver  to include Telematry. Motor manufactures have really dialed there products in, along with companies like Castle Creations not to forget the many choices in battery manufactors. I think you will figure out real quick what equipment you will go with based on your initial post, you strike me as the type of guy who is observant and resourceful when it comes to educating yourself with all these choices. There are a lot of choices that can be made when build your first Heli. You figured the hardest part out already ( your here on Synergy Forum) My opinion is Go Big and think outside the box meaning it's easier to buy your equipment as if you were building a Hot Rod E7se, you can always "tone it down" through the FBL unit and Radio, and as you get more and more comfortable you will have plenty of room to grow and at least you will have the equipment to support your progression.

Best of luck and welcome to the Family!!

K