Welcome to this edition of the Thermal Circle. In this edition we have three new Spektrum Radios and two sailplane reviews. Model Flight are stocking the new Spektrum radios and Airstrike have new sailplanes from Nan Models in this edition of the Thermal Circle.

Overview

The NX6 is an evolution in Spektrum™ air radios that for the first time builds the connectivity and telemetry advantages of Smart Technology into a 6-channel transmitter. It’s perfect for any pilot who wants easy programming plus advanced features.

Features

• High-resolution, backlit, 3.2" color display screen
• Wi-Fi connectivity for easy product registration, model downloads and firmware updates
• Smart Technology compatibility out of the box
• 3.7V 2000 mAh 1S Lithium Ion transmitter battery included
• Integrated serial port for supporting 3rd party modules
• USB port for charging and data transfer, and for use with any simulator that supports USB game * controllers (including the RealFlight® RC Flight Simulator)
• Folding antenna
• Diversity antenna

NX Family

Spektrum is proud to introduce the latest leap forward in Spektrum RC technology — the NX Series of aircraft transmitters. The NX6, NX8 and NX10 equipped not only with the greatest Spektrum RC flight innovations up to now, but also, with new features and advances that will take you into the next generation of radio control.

With the Spektrum™ NX series, you'll enjoy the 6-channel, 8-channel or 10-channel versatility needed to operate your models to their fullest potential and to fly complex aircraft such from EDF's to giant scale balsa airplanes. And that's just where its next-generation "NX" series advantages begin. The NX transmitters also incorporates many of the latest exclusive Spektrum™ innovations for a level of ease, efficiency and performance you'll find in no other transmitter.

What's in the box?

• (1) Spektrum™ NX6 6-channel DSMX® Transmitter
• (1) 3.7V 2000 mAh 1S Lithium Ion Transmitter Battery
• (1) Micro USB cable
• (1) Product Manual

The NX6 2.4GHz DSMX® radio marks an evolution in Spektrum™ air transmitters for new to intermediate-level pilots. It's the first 6-channel radio in the Spektrum lineup to be equipped out-of-the-box with Smart Technology compatibility. The NX6 therefore comes ready to provide the advantages of state-of-the-art connectivity and telemetry — just pair it with Spektrum Smart batteries and Smart Avian™ ESCs.

The NX6 radio's Wi-Fi connectivity adds more convenience. In addition to completing product registration straight from the transmitter, you'll be able to download firmware updates instantly. It's a totally modern user experience with some of the same features found on the top-of-the-line Spektrum iX Series radios.

Proven Spektrum radio expertise is also evident in the NX6 transmitter's ergonomic design. Its contours, balance, and control positions combine to add precision to your inputs and offer unparalleled comfort. An easy-to-use roller wheel interface simplifies programming, with a large 3.2", high-resolution color display to make menus easy to read. Spektrum even includes a rechargeable 1S 2000mAh Li-Ion transmitter battery.

The NX6 is the Smart choice in a 6-channel air radio, delivering unexpected power and the innovative connectivity available only from Smart Technology. It's available as a transmitter only or packaged with the Spektrum AR6610T 6-channel DSMX®/DSM2® receiver — which is compatible with Spektrum Avian™ Smart ESCs for experiencing the full benefits of flying "Smart".

SMART TECHNOLOGY

The Spektrum™ NX6 comes ready to provide the advantages of state-of-the-art connectivity right out of the box by supporting the innovative, all-in-one telemetry of Spektrum™ Smart batteries, ESCs and receivers. Smart Technology ensures that all of your model's electronics work together seamlessly for the greatest efficiency and performance. It keeps you aware of every component's status, boosts your confidence in its capabilities, and makes your entire system more responsive and simple to use.

WI-FI AND USB CONNECTIVITY

When connected to Wi-Fi, the NX6 transmitter gets even smarter. You can complete product registration right from the transmitter and download firmware updates instantly. A micro USB port allows you to charge the internal Li-Ion battery with an ordinary USB-to-Micro USB cable. It can also be used to recognize accessory devices and provide a convenient link to your PC or laptop. Connect the NX6 transmitter to your computer and you can control most simulators, including the RealFlight® RC Flight Simulator.*

*Currently compatible only with RF8 and RF9.

VOICE ALERTS

With voice alerts, the NX6 lets you keep tabs on important functions without ever taking your eyes away from your aircraft. They can be programmed to call out what flight mode you've chosen or to report telemetry information on demand. If an alarm goes off, you won't have to look at the transmitter display to see what's happening — the NX6 will tell you. A headphone jack allows you to monitor voice alerts using earbuds so you don't bother other pilots.

EASY PROGRAMMING

The NX6 offers 10 flight modes for airplanes, 10 for sailplanes, 5 for multirotor aircraft, and 4 for helicopters. Six programmable mixes are available. Channel 7 can be used as a two or three position channel for SAFE select or flight mode selection for our BNF aircraft, freeing up the primary 6 channels to use for control surfaces. Navigating program menus is made easy by the transmitter's large, 3.2" color display and a roller-wheel scrolling interface with Clear, Back, and Function buttons. Function bar options include Telemetry Ticker Tape for following real-time telemetry data and "My List" to give you quick access to the menu items you select, organized however you wish. You'll have quick, uncluttered access to the features you use the most!

ERGONOMIC DESIGN

The NX6 transmitter's weight distribution and switch placement (three 2-position, five 3-position) have been optimized for your comfort and precise, fatigue-free control. Rubber grips make it easy to hold the radio securely. Its antenna folds conveniently to the front for compact storage and transport. It also helps to prevent accident powering on by partially blocking the power button.

WIRELESS TRAINER LINK

The wireless trainer link allows instructor pilots to wirelessly "buddy box" the NX6 with another DSM2®/DSMX® transmitter. Once bound to another transmitter, ModelMatch™ technology enables the NX6 to re-link without going through the bind process again.

DSMX TECHNOLOGY DSMX® TECHNOLOGY

The NX6 transmitter is built around proven Spektrum™ DSMX® 2.4GHz frequency-agile technology — the most advanced spread spectrum RC technology to date. By adding the agility of unique frequency shifts to the superior interference resistance of a wideband signal, and by limiting those shifts to a smaller portion of the 2.4GHz band, DSMX transmitters provide on-channel interference protection that's second to none.

Available from:

Available from:

Overview

The next-generation Spektrum™ NX8 offers a powerful combination of features and programmability available from no other 8-channel radio — including Wi-Fi connectivity; a large, 3.2” backlit color display; and built-in Smart Technology support.

Features

Backlit 3.2”, 320x240 resolution display screen with multiple colour palette choices and user customizable colours Wi-Fi connectivity for easy product registration and firmware updates Smart Technology compatibility out of the box Airplane, sailplane, multi-rotor and helicopter programming 10 programmable mixes, 2 sequencers, and up to 10 different flight modes 250 model memory Model templates for BNF® aircraft Superb ergonomics optimized for comfort and precise, fatigue-free control 3.7V 2000mAh 1S Lithium Ion transmitter battery and a USB cable for convenient USB charging

NX Family

Spektrum is proud to introduce the latest leap forward in Spektrum RC technology — the NX Series of aircraft transmitters. The NX6, NX8 and NX10 equipped not only with the greatest Spektrum RC flight innovations up to now, but also, with new features and advances that will take you into the next generation of radio control. With the Spektrum™ NX series, you'll enjoy the 6-channel, 8-channel or 10-channel versatility needed to operate your models to their fullest potential and to fly complex aircraft such from EDF's to giant scale balsa airplanes. And that's just where its next-generation "NX" series advantages begin. The NX transmitters also incorporates many of the latest exclusive Spektrum™ innovations for a level of ease, efficiency and performance you'll find in no other transmitter.

What's in the box?

• (1) Spektrum™ NX8 8-Channel DSMX® Transmitter
• (1) 2000mAh LiIon transmitter battery and cable for USB charging
• (1) NX8 Transmitter Neck Strap
• (1) Product Manual

With the Spektrum™ NX8, you’ll enjoy the 8-channel versatility needed to operate your models to their fullest potential and to fly complex aircraft such as EDF jets. And that’s just where its next-generation “NX” series advantages begin. The NX8 also incorporates many of the latest exclusive Spektrum™ innovations for a level of ease, efficiency and performance you’ll find in no other 8-channel transmitter.

Out of the box, the NX8 is compatible with Smart Technology. It comes ready to support your Spektrum™ Smart batteries and Smart Avian™ ESCs so you can receive essential telemetry data right at your fingertips in real time. The NX8 radio’s Wi-Fi connectivity adds even more convenience. In addition to completing product registration straight from the transmitter, you’ll be able to download firmware updates instantly. It’s a totally modern user experience.

More proven Spektrum™ radio expertise can be found in the NX8 transmitter’s ergonomic design. The contours, balance, and control positions combine to increase the accuracy of your inputs and provide unparalleled comfort. An easy-to-use roller wheel interface and easy-to-read menus simplify programming. The large 3.2” colour display also presents telemetry information in crisp, clear, high-resolution detail, and lets you choose from multiple colour palettes — or create your own. Even a long-lasting, rechargeable 1S 2000mAh Li-Ion transmitter battery and USB cable for convenient USB charging are included.

With 250 model memory, model programming templates, programmable voice alerts, wireless trainer system functionality and more, the NX8 puts a wide array of control innovations and advantages into the palms of your hands. Fly your aircraft with next-generation performance — choose the 8-channel NX8 transmitter from Spektrum™.

SMART TECHNOLOGY

The Spektrum™ NX8 comes ready to provide the advantages of state-of-the-art connectivity right out of the box by supporting the innovative, all-in-one telemetry of Spektrum™ Smart batteries, ESCs and receivers. Smart Technology ensures that all of your model's electronics work together seamlessly for the greatest efficiency and performance. It keeps you aware of every component's status, boosts your confidence in its capabilities, and makes your entire system more responsive and simple to use.

WI-FI AND USB CONNECTIVITY

When connected to Wi-Fi, the NX8 transmitter gets even smarter. You can complete product registration right from the transmitter and download firmware updates instantly. A micro USB port allows you to charge the internal Li-Ion battery with an ordinary USB-to-Micro USB cable. It can also be used to recognize accessory devices and provide a convenient link to your PC or laptop. Connect the NX8 transmitter to your computer and you can control most simulators, including the RealFlight® RC Flight Simulator.*

*Currently compatible only with RF8 and RF9.

LARGE 3.2” COLOUR DISPLAY

Navigating menus and viewing telemetry data is made easy by the NX8 transmitter’s large, 3.2” backlit colour display that delivers information in crisp, 320x240 resolution detail. The display screen also allows you to choose from multiple colour palettes or create your own.

EASY PROGRAMMING

The NX8 offers 10 programmable mixes, 2 sequencers, and up to 10 different flight modes. You can easily navigate program menus with the transmitter’s roller-wheel scrolling interface with Clear, Back, and Function buttons. Function bar options include Telemetry Ticker Tape for following real-time telemetry data and “My List” to give you quick access to the menu items you select, organized however you wish. You’ll have quick, uncluttered access to the features you use the most.

MODEL TEMPLATES

Model programming templates for BNF® aircraft that include desired switch assignments, rates, curves and other details are already saved into the NX8 transmitter. You can also simplify the process of creating set-ups for new models by selecting Template and starting from a generic model template of the appropriate model type.

VOICE ALERTS

Keep tabs on important information without ever taking your eyes off what you are flying. The NX8 programmable voice alert system can call out what flight mode you have chosen or report telemetry info on demand. If an alarm goes off, you won't have to look at the display to see what's happening. The NX8 can tell you. A headphone jack allows you to monitor voice alerts using earbuds so you don't bother other pilots.

WIRELESS TRAINER

The exclusive functionality of the Spektrum™ wireless trainer link gives NX8 users the ability to link up wirelessly with other Spektrum™ DSMX®/DSM2® transmitters when teaching someone to fly. It’s hassle-free. Once bound to another transmitter or component, ModelMatch™ technology will allow the NX8 to re-link without going through the bind process all over again.

HIGH CAPACITY Li-ION TRANSMITTER BATTERY

The NX8 transmitter includes a long-lasting 3.7V 2000mAh 1S Lithium Ion battery and a USB cable for convenient USB charging.

DSMX® TECHNOLOGY

The NX8 transmitter is built around proven Spektrum™ DSMX® 2.4GHz frequency-agile technology — the most advanced spread spectrum RC technology to date. By adding the agility of unique frequency shifts to the superior interference resistance of a wideband signal, and by limiting those shifts to a smaller portion of the 2.4GHz band, DSMX® transmitters provide on-channel interference protection that’s second to none.

Available from:

Available from:

Overview

From Wi-Fi connectivity and a large, 3.2” backlit colour display to its built-in Smart Technology support, the NX10 10-channel transmitter provides experienced pilots with all of the advantages available from next-level Spektrum™ radio control.

Features

Backlit 3.2", 320x240 display screen with multiple color palette choices and user customizable colours Wi-Fi connectivity for easy product registration and firmware updates Superb ergonomics including smooth Hall-effect sensor gimbals Smart Technology compatibility out of the box 3.7V 6000mAh 1S Lithium Ion transmitter battery and a magnetic USB Cable and Micro USB Adapter for convenient USB charging Airplane, sailplane, multi-rotor and helicopter programming 250 model memory Model templates available for BNF® aircraft

NX Family

Spektrum is proud to introduce the latest leap forward in Spektrum RC technology — the NX Series of aircraft transmitters. The NX6, NX8 and NX10 equipped not only with the greatest Spektrum RC flight innovations up to now, but also, with new features and advances that will take you into the next generation of radio control. With the Spektrum™ NX series, you'll enjoy the 6-channel, 8-channel or 10-channel versatility needed to operate your models to their fullest potential and to fly complex aircraft such from EDF's to giant-scale balsa airplanes. And that's just where its next-generation "NX" series advantages begin. The NX transmitters also incorporates many of the latest exclusive Spektrum™ innovations for a level of ease, efficiency and performance you'll find in no other transmitter.

What's in the box?

• (1) Spektrum™ NX10 10-Channel DSMX® Transmitter
• (1) 6000mAh LiIon transmitter battery with a magnetic USB Cable and Micro USB Adapter for USB charging
• (1) NX10 Transmitter Neck Strap
• (1) Product Manual

The Spektrum™ NX10 10-channel DSMX® transmitter gives intermediate to advanced pilots a new opportunity to explore the advantages of truly innovative radio control. This radio includes an incredible array of exclusive technologies and advanced connectivity features that are found in no other 10-channel transmitters.

Out of the box, the NX10 is compatible with Smart Technology. It's ready to support your Spektrum™ Smart batteries and Smart Avian™ ESCs, so you can receive important telemetry data right at your fingertips in real time. Exclusive Spektrum™ Airware™ software is also included to provide the easiest, most intuitive programming available.

The NX10 radio's Wi-Fi connectivity adds more convenience. In addition to completing product registration straight from the transmitter, you'll be able to download firmware updates instantly. It's a totally modern user experience with some of the same features and capabilities found in the top-of-the-line Spektrum™ iX Series radios.

More proven Spektrum™ radio expertise can be found in the NX10 transmitter's ergonomic design. The contours, balance, and control positions combine to increase the accuracy of your inputs and provide unparalleled comfort. Hall-effect sensor gimbals offer long-lasting precision with an ultra-smooth feel that's adjustable from the front of the transmitter. An easy-to-use roller wheel interface simplifies programming, with a large 3.2" colour display to make menus easy to read. Even a rechargeable 1S 6000mAh Li-Ion transmitter battery and magnetic USB Cable and Micro USB Adapter for convenient USB charging are included.

From its brilliantly designed display to the Wi-Fi connectivity plus built-in Smart Technology support and more, the NX10 gives experienced pilots access to a wide array of Spektrum™ exclusive advantages and innovations. Fly your aircraft with next-level control — choose the 10-channel NX10 transmitter.

SMART TECHNOLOGY

The Spektrum™ NX6 comes ready to provide the advantages of state-of-the-art connectivity right out of the box by supporting the innovative, all-in-one telemetry of Spektrum™ Smart batteries, ESCs and receivers. Smart Technology ensures that all of your model's electronics work together seamlessly for the greatest efficiency and performance. It keeps you aware of every component's status, boosts your confidence in its capabilities, and makes your entire system more responsive and simple to use.

LARGE 3.2" colour DISPLAY

Navigating menus and viewing telemetry data is made easy by the NX8 transmitter's large, 3.2" backlit colour display that delivers information in crisp, 320x240 resolution detail. The display screen also allows you to choose from multiple colour palettes or create your own.

WI-FI AND USB CONNECTIVITY

When the NX10 transmitter is connected to Wi-Fi, you can complete product registration and download firmware updates instantly. A micro USB port allows you to charge the internal Li-Ion battery with the included USB-to-Micro magnetic USB cable and magnetic adapter. It can also be used to recognize accessory devices and provide a convenient link to your PC or laptop. Connect the transmitter to your computer and you can control most simulators, including the RealFlight® RC Flight Simulator.*

*Currently compatible only with RF8 and RF9.

VOICE ALERTS

With voice alerts, the NX10 lets you keep tabs on important functions without ever taking your eyes away from your aircraft. They can be programmed to call out what flight mode you've chosen or to report telemetry information on demand. If an alarm goes off, you won't have to look at the transmitter display to see what's happening — the NX10 will tell you. A headphone jack allows you to monitor voice alerts using earbuds so you don't bother other pilots

MODEL TEMPLATES

Model programming templates for BNF® aircraft that include desired switch assignments, rates, curves and other details are already saved into the NX10 transmitter. You can also simplify the process of creating set-ups for new models by selecting Template and starting from a generic model template of the appropriate model type.

ERGONOMIC DESIGN

The NX10 transmitter's Hall-effect sensor gimbals offer long-lasting precision with an ultra-smooth feel that's conveniently adjustable from the front of the transmitter. Weight distribution and switch placement have been optimized for comfort and precise, fatigue-free control. Rubber grips make it easy to hold the radio securely. Its antenna folds conveniently to the front for compact storage and transport. It also helps to prevent accidental powering on by partially blocking the power button.

EASY PROGRAMMING

The NX10 offers 14 programmable mixes and up to 10 different flight modes. You can easily navigate program menus with the transmitter's roller-wheel scrolling interface with Clear, Back, and Function buttons. Function bar options include Telemetry Ticker Tape for following real-time telemetry data and "My List" to give you quick access to the menu items you select, organized however you wish. You'll have quick, uncluttered access to the features you use the most.

SPEKTRUM™ AIRWARE™ SOFTWARE

Exclusive Spektrum™ AirWare™ programming software includes all of the functions that an expert pilot could want, but you don't have to be an expert to use them. It also offers benefits not available on other systems, such as Enhanced Wing Type programming that automatically configures the necessary mixes; Active Gyro and Governor Trim to fine-tune rotor speed and gyro gain while in flight; and Electronic E-Ring to limit servo travel automatically if the sum of the cyclic and pitch values exceeds servo limits.

HIGH CAPACITY Li-ION TRANSMITTER BATTERY

The NX10 transmitter includes a long-lasting 3.7V 6000mAh 1S Lithium Ion battery and a magnetic USB Cable and Micro USB Adapter for convenient USB charging.

DSMX® TECHNOLOGY

The NX10 transmitter is built around proven Spektrum™ DSMX® 2.4GHz frequency-agile technology — the most advanced spread spectrum RC technology to date. By adding the agility of unique frequency shifts to the superior interference resistance of a wideband signal, and by limiting those shifts to a smaller portion of the 2.4GHz band, DSMX® transmitters provide on-channel interference protection that's second to none.

Available from:

Available from:

Explorer 4

Whether scratching for altitude in light lift conditions or speeding through sink to the next thermal, Explorer Q4 gives you a BIG advantage! And talk about slowing down to hit your perfect landing, this bird can really hit the brakes!

Extensive experimenting and testing with different flap chords has resulted in this latest Explorer model. State-of-the-art construction methods combined with maximum airfoil camber flexibility and efficiency, plus Explorer's sleek, low drag air frame combine to make this exclusive sailplane impossible to beat!

Brand new high performance F5J competition glider. First of the Explorer range with a 4 piece wing (center panel is in 2 pieces and two versions of the center panel and two versions of the wing tips are available – 3.5 m, 3.7 m, 3.8 m and 4 m). The airfoil is modified form of the previous versions of the Explorer. The fuse is in 3 parts. X and V tail version are available. This makes it much easier to transport, because you can fit 3 Q models in a box 33x33x135. The servos for the tail are extremely easy to install in the rear end of the fuse. Ballast is to be put in tubes inside the wing and is easily removed. Model is suitable for experienced modelers and competitors and is suitable to all weather conditions (depending on the version).. The kit is supplied with:

• Carbon fuselage
• Fully molded composite wing panels
• Fully molded composite tail
• Full accessory pack

Recommended Motor: NeuMotor 1102/3.5Y/5.8 (P22)

Recommended ESC: CC Phoenix EDGE Lite 50 Brushless Speed Controller

Recommended Battery: Tattu Battery 850mAh 3S 75C Lipo

Recommended Spinner: GM 30/6mm Spinner

Recommended prop: GM 15x8 Prop.

Recommended Cover: Xplorer/Explorer Covers

NAN models in Bulgaria represents their continued dedication to producing some of the finest, best value models in the world. The Explorer raises the bar to a new level with ever-higher quality, superior fit and finish into a lighter, stiffer air frame. Nikolay has been working hard on the production of this new model for some time, and once again, he has come up with a winner!

Available from:

Available from:

Explorer BF

Whether scratching for altitude in light lift conditions or speeding through sink to the next thermal, Explorer BF gives you a BIG advantage! And talk about slowing down to hit your perfect landing, this bird can really hit the brakes! And its V-tail reduces induced drag to an practical minimum!Extensive experimenting and testing with different flap chords has resulted in this latest Explorer model. Super light, state-of-the-art construction methods combined with maximum airfoil camber flexibility and efficiency, plus Explorer's sleek, low drag airframe combine to make this exclusive sailplane impossible to beat!

Explorer BF 4000 V-tail shares the same, proven airfoil with the Xplorer 1 F3J model. With its new slimmer fuselage with removable nose, ballasting the plane is much easier. Wing is IDS friendly and wing servos are moved as close to the center of the wing as possible to improve handling of the plane at low altitudes when it matters the most to work out tight thermals. Weight savings are mostly achieved in construction of the wing and amount of material used. The model is suitable for F5J use only.

The kit is supplied with: Carbon fuselage Fully molded composite wing panels Fully molded composite tail Full accessory pack

Recommended Motor: NeuMotor 1102/3.5Y/5.8 (P22)

Recommended ESC: CC Phoenix EDGE Lite 50 Brushless Speed Controller

Recommended Battery: Tattu Battery 850mAh 3S 75C Lipo

Recommended Spinner: GM 30/6mm Spinner

Recommended prop: GM 15x8 Prop.

Recommended Cover: Xplorer/Explorer Covers

NAN models in Bulgaria represents their continued dedication to producing some of the finest, best value models in the world. The Xplorer raises the bar to a new level with ever-higher quality, superior fit and finish into a lighter, stiffer airframe. Nikolay has been working hard on the production of this new model for some time, and once again, he has come up with a winner!

Available from:

Available from:

That's all from the Thermal Circle, happy safe and successful soaring. Hayden Daley 2020.