My vote goes for JETI, I have had Futaba, Hi-Tec, Multiplex, and JR. I got a DS-12 recently to try an alternative to my JR (XG6 and XG11). My honest opinion, I feel like when I had my first radio when I was a lot younger, this thing is so much fun, really a radio that is is just fun to use! Here are my thoughts:
- Hardware: Jeti DS-12 quality is excellent, on par with High end Futaba and JR. Gimbals are butter smooth, precise, the angle can be adjusted. Switches are on par with the best brands out there but they have a plug-n-play design that makes changing them for a different type or relocating them a matter of seconds once you open the case. The screen is well positioned and is nice and crisp, even under sunlight. Ergonomics are good and the radio is very light (700 grams) compared to similar radios in the category.
- Software: In this regard, no other brand can touch JETI. The ease of navigation is superb, programming is also incredibly logical and easy. It just works, no bugs or weird things not functioning. I was able to program a 4-channel DLG, with motor, 5 flight modes, independent cambers and mixes in each mode, etc. in about 2 hours with zero previous experience. You can also install custom LUA apps.
- Features: at least for my needs (composite pure gliders and electric gliders, 4-6 channels) it is more than enough. I got the basic version and activated voice output, logic switches and 3 extra flight modes. Many more features in the fully featured version but I don't need them. I may activate haptics and accelerometer later on. It is all built in the radio but locked via software and you just buy/activate only what you need.
- Receivers: nice range of options sizes, very well built and high quality. Even the antenna cables are a level above the rest. Lots of telemetry options/sensors that simply work.
I really wanted a FrsKy Tandem X18 as it looks sexy and with the OpenTX the possibilities are virtually endless, not to mention a great price and also very well priced receivers. However, after researching and reading a lot, I decided I did not have the time or patience to learn to program with OpenTX and also there were some quality issues reported on receivers and the radio hardware. I am glad I went with JETI, it is definitely worth the money. Time is money, I rather spend time flying than fidgeting with programming or software/hardware issues.
