Overview
The Futaba T6K-V3S 8-Channel Air Radio with R3008SB Receiver represents outstanding value for money in the world of RC aircraft transmitters. Don't be fooled by its competitive price point — this is a remarkably capable, telemetry-enabled and S.Bus-equipped 8-channel computer radio that punches well above its weight. Perfect for beginners discovering RC aircraft for the first time, returning modellers who want to get back into the hobby, or experienced pilots seeking a solid second transmitter for backup or rainy day flying sessions, the T6K-V3S is a genuine winner that delivers confidence-inspiring performance across the board.
This comprehensive radio system comes bundled with the R3008SB 8-channel S.Bus receiver, offering you everything needed to get flying. With support for T-FHSS and S-FHSS air protocols, a generous 30-model memory capacity, and a powerful programming feature-set covering all four major aircraft types — fixed-wing power aircraft, gliders, helicopters and multirotors — the T6K-V3S truly is a versatile platform. Whether you're flying trainers, sport aerobats, competition gliders, RC helicopters, foam warbirds, EDF jets or multirotors, this transmitter delivers the functionality and reliability you need. The thoughtfully designed ergonomics ensure the radio sits very comfortably in your hands during extended flying sessions, whilst the ultra-intuitive programming interface means you'll immediately feel at home with the system and quickly grow to love its unpretentious functionality, bullet-proof radio link and sheer ease of use.
UK RC enthusiasts will appreciate the official Futaba backing through J Perkins, the established and recognised UK distributor since 1975. This transmitter offers genuine value for money without compromising on the features that matter most when you're controlling an RC aircraft in the air.
Key Features
- T-FHSS and S-FHSS Air Protocols with Telemetry Support — Both protocols ensure secure, frequency-hopping communication with interference-free operation. Telemetry functionality allows real-time monitoring of vital system parameters during flight, enhancing safety and situational awareness.
- 8 Channels with 30-Model Memory — The full 8-channel capability provides complete control authority across all aircraft types, whilst the generous 30-model memory allows you to store settings for an entire fleet without overwriting previous configurations. Eight-character model naming makes it easy to identify which aircraft you're about to fly.
- S.Bus and S.Bus2 System Support — Multiple servos, gyros and telemetry sensors can be easily installed with a minimum of cables. This revolutionary system dramatically reduces the complexity of wiring, cutting down on installation time and potential points of failure. Direct S.Bus and S.Bus2 device setting from the transmitter itself means servo configuration and telemetry sensor setup can be completed without additional computer software.
- Backlit LCD Display with Contrast Adjustment — The high-visibility screen features backlighting for clear operation in various lighting conditions, with adjustable contrast ensuring readability whether you're flying in bright sunshine or overcast conditions. The servo monitor function allows real-time visualisation of servo positions during setup and troubleshooting.
- Vibration Alert System — The operator can be notified of selected warnings through transmitter vibration, providing tactile feedback that grabs your attention even in noisy flying field environments without requiring you to look down at the screen.
- Comprehensive Telemetry System — Receiver battery voltage is displayed on screen during flight, providing critical information about power status. With optional telemetry sensors, you can monitor altitude, temperature, RPM, current draw and capacity, giving you unprecedented insight into your aircraft's behaviour and systems during flight.
- Spoken Telemetry via Earphone Jack — Voiced telemetry data can be heard by plugging commercial earphones into the transmitter, allowing you to receive voice prompts and warnings without taking your eyes off your aircraft. This feature significantly enhances situational awareness during challenging flying.
- Software Updates via CIU-3 USB Interface — The transmitter's firmware can be updated to add new features and improve performance using the optional CIU-3 USB interface (sold separately). This future-proofs your investment and ensures your radio remains current with the latest software enhancements.
- Digital Trims with Audible Feedback — Rapid trimming during flight is possible with an audible indication confirming the centre point. The step size can be arbitrarily changed, and trim position is displayed on the LCD, providing complete feedback on all trim adjustments you make during flight.
- Built-in Antenna — The integrated antenna simplifies the transmitter design and eliminates concerns about antenna damage or loss, making the system truly portable and ready to fly straight from your flying bag.
- Throttle Position Warning — The system alerts you if the throttle is not in the idle position when you attempt to bind or initialise the receiver, preventing accidental motor starts and enhancing safety during setup and starting procedures.
- Trainer System — The integrated trainer function allows experienced pilots to teach newcomers safely by switching control authority between transmitters. This invaluable feature is essential for anyone introducing friends and family to the hobby.
- Free Programmable Mixers — Beyond the pre-programmed mixing options, the T6K-V3S offers completely free programmable mixers, allowing you to create custom control combinations for experimental aircraft or unconventional designs.
- Extensive Pre-Programmed Mixer Options — The transmitter includes dedicated pre-programmed mixing functions for elevon aircraft, V-tail designs, aileron differential, elevator-to-flap mixing, flap-to-elevator mixing, air brake functions, motor switching, butterfly mixing, camber mixing, and much more, covering virtually every configuration you'll encounter.
- Comprehensive Helicopter Support — With dedicated helicopter programming including swash mixing with six different swash plate configurations, dual-rate function for swash control (AFR), pitch curves, throttle curves, governor gain adjustment, revolution mixing, throttle hold, hover throttle, and hover pitch settings, the T6K-V3S is fully equipped to control complex RC helicopters.
- Full Aircraft Type Support — The radio offers five different fixed-wing aircraft configurations and two fixed-wing tail type options, ensuring you have the right programming mode for conventional aircraft, flying wings, and experimental designs. Helicopter pilots get access to six different swash plate configuration options, whilst multirotor pilots benefit from dedicated programming.
- Fail-Safe Functionality — Programmable fail-safe settings ensure your aircraft moves to a safe position (such as landing) if the radio signal is lost, dramatically improving safety and reducing the risk of loss.
- Exponential and Dual Rate Control — Advanced flight control features including exponential curves and dual-rate (AFR) allow you to customise the control response to match your flying style and your aircraft's characteristics, from gentle trainer responses to aggressive aerobatic throws.
- Flexible Power Options — The transmitter suits 4x AA dry cells for occasional use, or compatible NiMH and LiFe rechargeable battery packs for regular flying, giving you flexibility in how you power the system based on your usage patterns and budget.
Technical Performance
The Futaba T6K-V3S operates on the 2.4GHz frequency band, a globally recognised and universally safe frequency for RC operations in the UK and worldwide. The included R3008SB receiver is a sophisticated 8-channel S.Bus compatible receiver that works seamlessly with the T-FHSS and S-FHSS protocols transmitted by the radio. The receiver battery voltage is displayed in real-time on the transmitter screen, allowing you to monitor receiver power status during flight without additional components. The system's construction emphasises reliability and durability, with Futaba's reputation for quality control built into every component. The backlit LCD screen provides clear visibility of all programming parameters and real-time flight data, with adjustable contrast to suit different lighting conditions encountered at UK flying sites. The ergonomic hand position and button layout reflect decades of Futaba's RC transmitter engineering expertise, ensuring comfortable operation during extended flying sessions. Support for telemetry sensors allows temperature monitoring, RPM measurement, altitude tracking, current and voltage measurement, and capacity calculations, transforming your transmitter into a comprehensive flight data acquisition system. The S.Bus2 system integration means servo configuration and sensor setup can be completed directly from the transmitter without requiring a computer, streamlining the setup process significantly. The dual-timer functionality supports both flight duration timing and engine run timing, essential for competition flying and optimising your aircraft's performance across different phases of flight.
What's in the Box
- 1x T6K-V3S 8-channel transmitter (Mode 2)
- 1x R3008SB 8-channel S.Bus receiver
- 1x Switch harness
- 1x Screwdriver for service and adjustment
- 1x Short manual with reference guide (full manual available for download from Futaba)
What You Need to Complete
- 4x AA batteries for the transmitter (dry cells, NiMH or LiFe packs compatible)
- RC aircraft suitable for 8-channel operation
- Servos and speed controllers compatible with S.Bus or S.Bus2 protocols (optional telemetry sensors for enhanced monitoring)
- CIU-3 USB interface if you wish to update transmitter software in future (sold separately)
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the Futaba T6K-V3S suitable for beginners learning RC aircraft? — Absolutely. The T6K-V3S is specifically marketed as ideal for beginners, returning modellers and those wanting a solid second radio. The ultra-intuitive programming interface means you'll immediately feel at home with the system, and the comprehensive support for trainers and sport aircraft makes it perfect for learning to fly. The trainer system function allows experienced pilots to take control if needed, making it genuinely valuable for supervised learning.
- What protocols does the T6K-V3S transmitter use? — The transmitter operates on both T-FHSS (Air) and S-FHSS (Air) protocols, both of which support telemetry functionality. These frequency-hopping spread spectrum protocols provide secure, interference-free communication across the 2.4GHz band, the same frequency used by modern RC surface systems and certified as safe for RC operations throughout the UK and worldwide.
- What batteries does the Futaba T6K-V3S need? — The transmitter is powered by 4x AA batteries, accepting standard dry cells for occasional use or compatible rechargeable NiMH and LiFe battery packs for regular flying. This flexibility means you can choose between convenience (rechargeable packs) or simplicity (standard alkaline cells) based on your flying frequency and preferences.
- How much model memory does this radio have? — The T6K-V3S provides 30-model memory, allowing you to store the complete programming setup for 30 different aircraft without overwriting previous configurations. Eight-character model naming ensures you can easily identify which aircraft you're about to fly.
- Does the T6K-V3S support helicopter control? — Yes, the transmitter includes comprehensive helicopter programming support with six different swash plate configuration options, pitch and throttle curves, revolution mixing, governor gain adjustment, throttle hold, and hover throttle and pitch control. It's genuinely capable of controlling complex RC helicopters alongside fixed-wing aircraft.
- What is S.Bus2 and why does it matter? — S.Bus2 is Futaba's advanced servo communication protocol that allows multiple servos, gyros and telemetry sensors to be connected with minimal wiring. Instead of individual servo cables from the receiver, all devices connect to a single S.Bus line, dramatically reducing installation complexity and potential failure points. The transmitter can configure S.Bus2 devices directly without computer software.
- Can I update the transmitter software? — Yes, software updates are supported through the optional CIU-3 USB interface (sold separately), allowing you to add new features and improvements to your transmitter over time. This future-proofs your investment in this radio system.
- What aircraft types can this radio control? — The T6K-V3S supports fixed-wing power aircraft, gliders, helicopters and multirotors with dedicated programming modes for each. It covers five fixed-wing aircraft configurations, two tail type options, and six helicopter swash configurations, making it suitable for trainers, sport aerobats, competition gliders, RC helicopters, foam warbirds, EDF jets and multirotor platforms.
- Does the transmitter have telemetry? — Yes, telemetry is fully supported. The receiver battery voltage is displayed on screen during flight automatically. Optional telemetry sensors can monitor temperature, RPM, altitude, current draw and battery capacity, allowing you to hear voiced telemetry warnings through earphones plugged into the transmitter jack.
- What is included in the box? — You receive the T6K-V3S 8-channel transmitter, the R3008SB 8-channel S.Bus receiver, a switch harness, a screwdriver, and the short manual (full manual available for download). The only item you need to add is 4x AA batteries to power the transmitter.
- How many channels does this radio have? — The T6K-V3S is a full 8-channel transmitter, providing complete control authority for virtually any RC aircraft configuration. Eight channels is the standard for modern RC transmitters and supports complex aircraft with multiple control surfaces.
Why Buy from RC Model Shop?
RC Model Shop is a trusted UK RC retailer and authorised dealer for all the brands we stock, including Traxxas, ARRMA, Losi, FTX, Hobbywing, Spektrum and more. Based in Walsall, we have a physical store where customers are welcome to come in, view products and purchase in store. Whether you are a seasoned competitor, a weekend basher, or just discovering the world of RC for the first time, our team of experienced RC enthusiasts is here to help you find the perfect setup and provide ongoing support. Order the Futaba T6K-V3S 8-Channel Air Radio with R3008SB Rx, Mode 2 FUT05003171-3 today with confidence, knowing you are buying from an authorised retailer with genuine products, expert knowledge and a commitment to customer satisfaction. Shop online or visit us in Walsall — we look forward to helping you get the most out of your RC experience.
- Model Number: FUT05003171-3
- Product Type: 8-channel RC air radio transmitter system
- Radio Protocol: T-FHSS (Air), S-FHSS (Air)
- Frequency Band: 2.4 GHz
- Number of Channels: 8
- Model Memory: 30
- Control Mode: Mode 2 (Throttle and Rudder on left stick)
- Included Receiver: R3008SB 8-channel S.Bus receiver
- Transmitter Display: Backlit LCD with contrast adjustment
- Model Naming: 8-character model identification
- Built-in Antenna: Yes
- Colour: Black
- Telemetry System: Enabled with voltage monitoring and support for optional temperature, RPM, altitude, current and capacity sensors
- S.Bus and S.Bus2 Compatibility: Supported with direct device configuration from transmitter
- Vibration Alert: Yes
- Earphone Jack: Yes for spoken telemetry
- Digital Trims: Yes with audible centre point indication and adjustable step size
- Servo Monitor Function: Yes
- Throttle Position Warning: Yes
- Trainer System: Yes with control switching capability
- Power Source: 4x AA batteries (dry cells, NiMH or LiFe compatible)
- Software Updates: Supported via optional CIU-3 USB interface (sold separately)
- Aircraft Type Support: Fixed-wing power aircraft, gliders, helicopters, multirotors
- Fixed-Wing Configurations: 5 aircraft types supported
- Fixed-Wing Tail Types: 2 options supported
- Helicopter Swash Types: 6 configurations supported
- Telemetry Sensor Types Supported: 5 different sensor types
- Programming Features: Sub-trim, servo reverse, fail-safe, exponential, throttle cut, end point/ATV (30-140%), trainer function, idle down, servo monitor, trim settings, AUX channels
- Mixer Options: Free programmable mixers plus pre-programmed options for elevon, V-tail, aileron differential, elevator-to-flap, flap-to-elevator, air brake, motor switch, butterfly, camber mixing, elevator-to-camber, aileron-to-camber
- Helicopter Features: Swash mixing, swash AFR, pitch curves, throttle curves, governor gain, throttle hold, revolution mixing, hover throttle, hover pitch, trim offset, swash setting, swash AFR, delay
- Dual Rates: AFR (Aileron, Flap, Rudder) supported
- Dual Timers: Yes
- Stick Alarm: Yes
- Gyro Sensor Support: Yes
- Acceleration Mixing: Yes
- Shipping Weight (complete system): 1.14 kg
- Age Recommendation: 14+
- Contents: 1x T6K-V3S 8-channel transmitter, 1x R3008SB 8-ch S.Bus receiver, 1x switch harness, 1x screwdriver, 1x short manual
- Required to Complete: 4x AA batteries for transmitter
Product Description of Futaba FUT05003171-3 T6K-V3S air radio Mode 2
The Futaba FUT05003171-3 T6K-V3S air radio Mode 2 is a feature-rich 8-channel transmitter designed for pilots who want reliable telemetry, intuitive programming, and broad model compatibility. Operating on Futaba’s T-FHSS and S-FHSS protocols, this Mode 2 system (throttle on the left stick) delivers real-time telemetry, S.Bus2 support, and programmable mixers across aircraft, gliders, helicopters, and multirotors. Supplied with the R3008SB receiver, the system supports up to 8 channels and integrates seamlessly with Futaba’s telemetry sensors. With a backlit LCD screen, digital trims, and a trainer system, the Futaba FUT05003171-3 8-channel transmitter with R3008SB offers precision and flexibility for both newcomers and experienced pilots.
Key features of the Futaba FUT05003171-3 T6K-V3S air radio Mode 2
- Telemetry-enabled T-FHSS protocol – displays battery voltage, altitude, RPM, temperature, and current
- S.Bus2 support – simplifies wiring and expands sensor and servo integration
- Programmable mixers and swash presets – supports fixed-wing, glider, helicopter, and multirotor configurations
- Vibration alert and earphone jack – provides tactile and audible feedback for telemetry alarms
- LCD screen and trainer system – enables clear navigation and dual-control training setups
- 30-model memory – stores multiple aircraft profiles with customizable naming
How does the telemetry system enhance flight monitoring?
The integrated telemetry system in the Futaba FUT05003171-3 telemetry radio with S.Bus2 support provides real-time feedback on critical flight data. Pilots can monitor receiver battery voltage, altitude, RPM, temperature, and current directly from the transmitter’s LCD screen. With support for five telemetry sensor types, the system ensures accurate diagnostics and performance tracking. The telemetry protocol operates on Futaba’s T-FHSS standard, offering stable bidirectional communication and compatibility with commercial earphones for voiced alerts.
Why is S.Bus2 compatibility important for advanced setups?
The Futaba air transmitter with LCD screen and trainer system supports S.Bus2, allowing multiple servos, gyros, and telemetry sensors to be connected with minimal cabling. This reduces weight and complexity in aircraft builds and enables direct device configuration from the transmitter. Whether you're setting up a glider with multiple control surfaces or a helicopter with advanced gyro integration, S.Bus2 ensures streamlined installation and precise control mapping.
How do programmable mixers and swash presets simplify setup?
The Futaba T6K-V3S with programmable mixers and swash presets includes five fixed-wing types, two tail configurations, and six helicopter swashplate options. These presets eliminate the need for manual mixing setup, allowing pilots to select the appropriate configuration and begin tuning immediately. The transmitter also supports pre-programmed mixers such as elevon, V-tail, butterfly, and camber mix, making it ideal for gliders and aerobatic aircraft. Custom mixers can be created for specialized control logic, offering flexibility across all model types.
What makes the interface intuitive and responsive?
The backlit LCD screen on the Futaba FUT05003171-3 T6K-V3S air radio Mode 2 provides clear visibility of telemetry data and menu settings. Digital trims offer audible feedback and customizable step size, while the trainer system enables dual-control setups for instructional use. Vibration alerts notify users of alarms without requiring visual confirmation, and the earphone jack allows telemetry data to be heard during flight. These features combine to create a user-friendly interface that supports both casual and competitive flying.
Why is the T6K-V3S ideal for sport and training applications?
The Futaba FUT05003171-3 8-channel transmitter with R3008SB is designed for pilots who need a dependable, feature-rich system for sport flying, training, or backup use. With 30-model memory, programmable mixers, and support for multiple aircraft types, it adapts easily to a wide range of flying styles. The CIU-3 interface (sold separately) allows software updates, ensuring long-term compatibility and performance. Whether you're flying gliders, helicopters, or multirotors, the T6K-V3S delivers the precision and reliability expected from Futaba.
For pilots seeking an affordable and telemetry-ready Mode 2 transmitter with advanced mixing and S.Bus2 support, buy Futaba FUT05003171-3 with 30 model memory and CIU-3 update support today.
Technical Specifications of Futaba FUT05003171-3 T6K-V3S air radio Mode 2
Brand, Model and Product Type
- Brand: Futaba
- Model: FUT05003171-3
- Product Type: Futaba FUT05003171-3 T6K-V3S air radio Mode 2, Futaba FUT05003171-3 8-channel transmitter with R3008SB, Futaba FUT05003171-3 telemetry radio with S.Bus2 support, Futaba FUT05003171-3 with vibration alert and earphone jack, Futaba air transmitter with LCD screen and trainer system
- Product Color: Black
Dimensions
- Transmitter Shipping Weight: 1.14 kg – includes transmitter, receiver, harness, screwdriver, and manual
Transmitter Specifications
- Channel Count: 8 – supports full control of gliders, helicopters, multirotors, and fixed-wing aircraft
- Radio Protocols: T-FHSS Air and S-FHSS Air – ensures secure, interference-free communication with telemetry support
- Frequency Band: 2.4 GHz – optimized for stable signal transmission
- Telemetry System: Enabled – displays receiver battery voltage, altitude, RPM, temperature, current, and capacity
- S.Bus2 Compatibility: Supported – allows multi-servo and sensor integration with minimal wiring
- Model Memory: 30 – stores multiple aircraft profiles with 8-character naming
- LCD Screen: Backlit with contrast adjustment – provides clear visibility of telemetry and menu settings
- Digital Trims: Audible feedback with adjustable step size – trim position displayed on screen
- Programmable Mixers: Available – supports custom control logic across all model types
- Swash Presets: 6 helicopter swash types – simplifies rotorcraft setup
- Fixed-Wing Presets: 5 wing types and 2 tail types – tailored for gliders and airplanes
- Trainer System: Enabled – supports dual-control setups for instructional use
- Vibration Alert: Selectable – provides tactile feedback for alarms and warnings
- Earphone Jack: Integrated – allows voiced telemetry data via commercial earphones
- Software Updates: Supported via CIU-3 USB interface (sold separately)
- Power Supply: Compatible with 4 × AA dry cells, NiMH, or LiFe packs
- Throttle Position Warning: Enabled – alerts user if throttle is not at idle during power-on
Receiver Specifications – R3008SB
- Receiver Model: R3008SB – supplied with transmitter for immediate pairing
- Channel Support: 8 channels – supports S.Bus and S.Bus2 device integration
What’s in the Box
- 1 × Futaba T6K-V3S 8-channel transmitter
- 1 × Futaba R3008SB receiver
- 1 × Switch harness
- 1 × Screwdriver
- 1 × Short manual (full manual available for download)
What You Require
- 4 × AA batteries or compatible NiMH/LiFe pack for transmitter operation
- Optional telemetry sensors for expanded data monitoring
- CIU-3 USB interface for software updates (sold separately)
- Commercial earphones for voiced telemetry output
We want to make sure your delivery goes smoothly, so here are some important details about our service:
- For orders above £120, we offer delivery to most mainland UK addresses. For orders under £120, we can still deliver to Northern Ireland and the outlying isles, as long as the item can be sent by Royal Mail, weighs less than 30kg, and fits within 61cm × 46cm × 46cm. Some highland and remote areas may carry an extra delivery charge as couriers often apply surcharges in these locations. If you live in one of these areas, feel free to contact us before ordering so we can confirm the delivery options and costs for you.
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