It would probably be just as cheap if not cheaper to obtain a radio from a hobby shop (either local or online) if cost is your concern. Are you trying to obtain one that's been modified with firing buttons wired into some of the channels?
If you go with the transmitter here: Visit this site you'll have two channels already set with buttons for four firing buttons.
I'd highly recommend going with either the spektrum DX6 radio or the Futaba FASST radio. Both are 2.4 ghz which will keep you away from frequency conflicts, and you won't have to worry about surface or air frequency radios (It's illegal to use aircraft radios in our surface ships). Also, someone posted on another thread about a deal on the DX6 radios being on sale right now for great prices. If I didn't already have a Futaba FASST I'd probably pick one up with a few spare RXs.
Just as a note to webwookie's post: http://www.allelectronics.com/cgi-bin/item/JS-6/395/6-CHANNEL_TRANSMITTER_AND_RECEIVER_.html This transmitter/receiver requires some type of circuit to be built, the PDF is attached to that page. I'm sure someone very electronics savvy could tackle it, but it looks pretty complicated. That said, I don't know much about radios, so maybe there is something I am missing? Some easier way to do it?
Did you even look at the one on all electronics? It's $30 for 4 angl + 2 dgtl. That exactly what you need for a standard warship. What ship did you choose by the way, you said tuggy will sell you one? I assume the sharnhorst?
Honestly, you're probably better off buying a new one. I know I wouldn't want somebody else's cast-off, & they aren't that expensive anymore. Just look for a basic 6-channel system from a good manufacturer. Computer radios are big-time overkill, & the extra money isn't worth it (more harm than good, IMO, since you're probably going to be less willing to hack into it). Master the basics, then learn & advance. JM
John is speaking 1000% Gospel. Buy a new radio, and then you don't have to worry about whether it works or not. Start with a cruiser or battlecruiser, and a 4 or 6 channel radio. Keep it inexpensive, and later you can go nuts with high-tech stuff.
It will take a good bit of time and money to be useful (unless you are _The Man_ with electronics). Better to buy a Spektrum ($200) or a Futaba ($???) 2.4GHz system, that will work without any heroics.
