Radio Controller - Airtronics / Sanwa MT4

Photo: Futaba 3PM-FS, Airtronics MT4 (aka Sanwa MT4) and Futaba 2PHKA radio controllers.

In the past 30 years I've owned many transmitters and radio controllers. And for me, I believe the Airtronics MT4 (also known as Sanwa) is the best value you can buy. It fits my hand like a glove and is very responsive, giving me a good feel and "connectivity" with my rc cars. Even my 10 year old daughter loves it, so now we both have matching Airtronics MT-4 controllers.

Here are some of its best features:

Very fast response and no glitching
Great ergonomics (large LCD screen, nice feel in your hands especially when applying the brake)
Throttle can be mechanically adjusted forward and backward, rotated to the left or to the right
Very lightweight at only 470 grams
Transmitter can be powered with 4cell AA alkaline, 6.6v Life or 7.4v Lipo battery packs
Telemetry allows you to remotely monitor engine temp and rc car speed
RX-461 Telemetry receiver
Comprehensive 100 page manual

As to real world performance, here's a short story. I bought the Aitronics MT4 just days before I was to fly to Singapore to compete in the 2011 Tamiya Asia Cup finals. I was racing in the tricky Tamiya F104 Formula One class, where there were 4 past champions in the line up. Despite being unfamiliar with this new controller, I managed 2nd place overall, my very best performance in the TAC Asia finals. And I believe the controller made a big difference.

Photo: Me in the blue shirt. 2nd with the Airtronics / Sanwa MT-4 rc controller.

So if you are looking for a cheap radio control unit, I highly recommend the Sanwa MT4. It's simply my favorite.

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