Spektrum DX8e SPMR8105

The Spektrum DX8e has the upgraded features and enhanced performance you’ve been waiting for since its six-channel predecessor. After all, you will need a better RC plane transmitter at some point, especially when your skills have advanced to the next level.

Spektrum apparently answered this call and added a bit more without doubling the cost of their latest big-boy toy. The unit is priced reasonably, which is enough to make the buyer feel they are getting more for the amount they paid.

Thanks to the DSMX innovation, the quick frequency shifting of the DX8e to its wideband signal’s resistance to interference is a commendable addition. As such, the user gets a superior response and faster connection despite the cramped 2.4GHz environment, and not suffering a significant loss of data.

Combining the versatility of having more channels and multiple programming modes, the DX8e is just what a novice pilot’s first air transmitter should be – powerful yet affordable. It is an excellent option for scale aircraft with flaps, retracts, and SAFE select designation. The DX8e offers sleek quad-bearing gimbals that have front access adjustments at various points – no disassembly required.

Your DX8e transmitter comes with Spektrum’s proprietary Airware software that allows different easy-to-use programming functions. You can play with any mixes which can be automatically configured based on your selected airplane wing type.

Cool Features of the DX8e

• Powerful 8- channel computer radio at 2048 resolution
• Versatile use with four programming modes: airplane, helicopter, sailplane, multi-rotor
• Large internal memory storage for up to 250 models plus available support for SD memory card
• Reliable built-in telemetry and FPV race timing system
• High flexibility with cross-platform sharing with other Spektrum models via wireless trainer link
• Superior DSMX/ DSM2 auto frame rate modulation options and Spektrum Airware
• High-resolution LCD with backlight
• Virtually damage-proof foldable antenna and case
• Convenient VTX control to change video channels directly from the device
• Adaptable digital switching
• Enhanced flight stability with AS3X technology
• Multi-faceted airplane programming with 7 wing types, 7-point throttle curves, and 6 tail types
• Configurable helicopter programming with 7 swashplate types, 7-point throttle curves, 7-point pitch curves, 7-point tail curves
• Variable sailplane programming with 4 wing types,3 tail types
• Simplified multirotor mode setup
• Easy front-access patent-pending gimbal design with four spring configurations
• Secure slider switch with protective cover and slider-lock

Why You’ll Simply Love Spektrum the DX8e

Not 6, but 8 channels

Beginner pilots may already find a lot of use with six channels, but it could be better when you have two more. Not only can you handle regular functions such as rudders, flaps, ailerons, elevators, retracts, and throttles, you can take on special features with SAFE select and LED lights. Now with those extra channels, you can perform bomb drops and all those fun-filled maneuvers. You can also use it with drone technology.

Ergonomic design and hassle-free gimbals

Flying with this air transmitter that is well-balanced in your hands will almost feel like an appendage. And based on its front-access, patent-pending design, you can make adjustments on the tension, racket, mode conversion of your gimbals without the need for disassembly or complex tools. The DX8e even has a secure slider switch by lifting off the rubber cover that allows you to change throttles using any of the four spring configurations below.

1. Normal Throttle for Modes 2 and 4 (all except multi-rotor model type)
2. Spring-Centered Throttle for Modes 2 and 4 (multi-rotor model type only)
3. Spring-Centered Throttle for Modes 1 and 3 (multi-rotor model type only)
4. Normal Throttle for Modes 1 and 3 (all except multi-rotor model type)

A slider lock protects the above configurations to prevent accidental switches.

Built-in telemetry that won’t fail you

You will appreciate having access to your flight readings in real-time. With the DX8e’s integrated telemetric system, you’ll never miss any important detail. It can provide you with the quality of signal coming to the receiver, battery voltage, motor rpm to check the responsiveness of your mixes, and motor temperature, among other things. You can view any of this information conveniently on the transmitter’s LCD screen.

Suppose you wish to receive alerts on telemetry values whenever any of them reaches or exceeds your set limits. In that case, you need to have telemetry sensors and a compatible receiver to do so.

Large memory capacity

This feature alone can make your purchase of the DX8e worth it. You can operate hundreds of models, each with its settings and refinements, using a single transmitter. With its power to store more than 250 models internally, you will likely not have much use for its external memory card support, which becomes more like a contingency. When you are only dealing with the internal memory, it makes shifting between models much easier. The accompanying menu even lends smooth and efficient navigation as it will only show occupied memory slots. You will have no ghosts of deleted models or scrolling through blanks.

Airplane Programming

• 7 Wing Types: Normal, Dual Aileron, Flaperon, 1 Aileron 1 Flap, 2 Aileron 1 Flap, Elevon A, Elevon B
• 6 Tail Types: Normal, V-Tail A, V-tail B, Dual Elevator, Dual Rudder, Dual Rudder/Elevator
• Flap System with Elevator Compensation
• 3 Flight Modes
• Dual Rates and Expo
• 7-Point Throttle Curve
• 3 Preset Mixes: Rudder-to-Aileron/Elevon, Aileron-to-Rudder, Elevator-to-Rudder
• 4 Programmable Mixes—Normal or Curve

Helicopter Programming

• Gyro
• 7-Point Throttle Curve
• 7-Point Pitch Curve
• 7-Point Tail Curve
• 2 Swash Plate Types: Normal, 3-Servo 120°
• 3 Flight Modes + Throttle Hold
• Dual Rates and Expo
• Cyclic-to-Throttle and Swashplate Timing Mixes
• 4 Programmable Mixes—Normal or Curve

Sailplane Programming

• 4 Wing Types: Single Aileron, Dual Aileron, 2 Aileron 1 Flap, 2 Aileron 2 Flap
• 3 Tail Types: Normal, V-Tail A, V-Tail B
• Camber System
• Camber Preset
• 5 Flight Modes
• Dual Rates and Expo
• 4 Preset Mixes: Aileron-to-Rudder, Aileron-to-Flap, Elevator-to-Flap, Flap-to-Elevator
• 4 Programmable Mixes—Normal or Curve

Multirotor Programming

• Multirotor Channel Inputs—ALT (Altitude), ROL (Roll), PIT (Pitch), YAW
• Multirotor Checklists and Warnings
• Simplified Multirotor Flight Mode Setup and Switch Assignment

Wireless buddy box

So if you’re getting this unit because you are a pilot newbie, you will find the wireless trainer link very useful. You can employ a buddy training system by binding with another DSMX or DSM2 transmitter and keep that link handy whenever you engage in it without the need to rebind. It is compatible with Spektrum FPV headsets and Spektrum Simulator Dongle to wirelessly support your flight practices and activities. Even when flying a camera drone, you can assign gimbal tasks to another transmitter which will help you maintain visual contact and avoid obstacles.

Our experience with the DX8e

We’ll begin with the design of this Spektrum transmitter. The case chassis is pretty straightforward in monochromatic black that’s not too far off from the prior DX6 versions. So far, we like how the gimbals are quite comfortable to use and how the blunt antennae can be tilted upwards to maintain the long-range signal quality.

They made the LCD backlit for this unit with an adjustable screen contrast. We noticed that the power button entails one click to turn it on and hold it down for several seconds to turn it off, preventing accidental power interruptions.

The ergonomics are good, having designed contours at the back to accommodate the pilot’s fingers naturally. Hence, it does not have any awkward feel that a poorly-designed device would have.

It is made of hard plastic, which can look cheap but accounts for its lightweight feature. You can also adjust the gimbals to fit your preferred length, and you will find that the switches are within comfortable reach.

Batteries included are the disposable double As, which get spent fast, so upgrading it to a rechargeable pack would be best because it can last you a whole day of marathon flying.

Of course, we love the versatility of having multiple flying vehicle options with the eight channels. You can configure according to the type of wing, tail, preset, and have programmable mixes so that your activity is nothing short of fun.

The front access is a plus which eliminates the need for the unit to come apart when tightening springs or engaging the ratchet. While you can adjust without much fanfare, using the right size, a screwdriver should help realign the tension screws.

Regarding the telemetry functions, it’s important to note that you will need a receiver and a sensor compatible with the device. In this case, it is better if this sensor is already integrated into the receiver to optimize this feature.

The eight channels this transmitter boasts of may not be necessary for some. While many beginners will not need this many channels during their practices, it’s better to have them available because things can add up quickly. Before you know it, all your channels are fully utilized, especially the extra features that warbirds and turbine jets require.

Final Thoughts

You have all the control functionality you’d want either as a beginner or an intermediate pilot with the Spektrum DX8e.

The presence of eight channels is highly favorable regardless if you will have use for all of them or not (because eventually, you will). You can fly a wide range of aircraft at a relatively affordable base price. Its 2048-resolution makes for smoother servo travel. The device offers more knobs and switches and better firmware if you are willing to shell out extra dollars.

Yes, the plastic casing becomes a letdown once you give a good look at its body and wish it came with a metal build. But at the same time, you’ll realize it may compromise the lightweight feature. If you’ve wondered what the “e” in DX8e stands for, this device is actually one of the offerings in their economical line of radio transmitters.

Even if it lacks the voice countdown of its almost-twin version that alerts you of telemetry values, which is the DX8, note that you’re still getting all these great features that add a lot of value to your acquisition. And just like other Spektrum transmitters, this model integrates seamlessly with BNF receivers included in E-flite planes.

Overall, the DX8e is a recommended purchase at 200 dollars more or less, depending on where you get it. Rookie and active pilots alike will appreciate its full range of features, especially if you’re coming from a four or six-channel transmitter. It suits almost all aircraft types and is compatible with other Spektrum devices and paraphernalia.