Futaba FX36 18-Channel Air Radio with R7208SB FUT05003203-3

Overview

The Futaba FX36 18-Channel Air Radio with R7208SB receiver represents the pinnacle of professional tray-style radio control systems, designed for serious RC pilots who demand the highest standards of precision, reliability and functionality. This flagship transmitter has been engineered specifically for high-level model flying and competition use, making it an ideal choice for pattern flyers, glider enthusiasts and experienced RC helicopter pilots across the UK and Europe. Whether you're flying fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, gliders or multirotors, the FX36 delivers the professional-grade control and advanced features required for competitive flying and demanding applications.

Built on Futaba's legendary reputation for quality and innovation since 1948, the FX36 combines the proven features of the well-respected T18MZ and T14SG transmitters with exciting new capabilities including a multicopter menu, enhanced telemetry functions and a stunning 4.3-inch colour touchscreen. This is not a system for casual flying—it's a purpose-built instrument for pilots who understand the importance of stick feel, response precision and complete aeronautical control. The ergonomic tray design with its professionally arranged switches, encoders and controls has become the preferred choice for pattern and glider flying throughout Europe, and the FX36 continues this tradition whilst pushing the boundaries of what's possible in RC radio technology.

As an RC transmitter available throughout the UK via authorised retailers, the FX36 represents a significant investment in your RC hobby. However, the comprehensive feature set, exceptional build quality and future-proof design through SD card software updates justify the premium positioning. If you're serious about RC flying and want a system that will serve you reliably for years to come through multiple aircraft and flying disciplines, the Futaba FX36 is the professional choice.

Key Features

• 18-Channel 2.4GHz System — This provides 18 individual control channels that give you complete authority over complex models with multiple servos, making it suitable for advanced helicopters, high-performance gliders and sophisticated fixed-wing aircraft with retractable landing gear, flaps, ailerons and more.
• Professional ST-57 Stick Units — Futaba's finest gimbal sticks as used in the T18MZ deliver extremely precise stick feel and response, providing the tactile feedback and accuracy that competition pilots demand during pattern flying sequences and precision manoeuvres.
• Multi-Protocol Flexibility — Supporting FASSTest, FASST, T-FHSS and S-FHSS transmission modes allows you to choose the right receiver for your specific model and flying requirements, ensuring compatibility across Futaba's extensive 2.4GHz receiver ecosystem.
• 4.3-Inch Colour Touchscreen — The 480 × 272 pixel display provides clear, intuitive menu navigation with support for 9 different language options, making model setup and configuration faster and more straightforward than traditional button-based systems.
• Extensive Telemetry Functions — Voice-activated telemetry with speaker output (or optional headphones connection) keeps you informed of critical flight data including altitude, temperature, battery voltage and more without requiring you to look at the transmitter during flight.
• 30 Model Memories with SD Card Expansion — Store up to 30 complete model profiles internally with the ability to expand storage via the integrated SD card slot, allowing you to manage a large fleet of aircraft with different configurations and flight characteristics.
• Advanced Flight Conditions System — Eight flight conditions per model memory (identical to the T18MZ) enable you to programme different control responses for takeoff, cruise, landing and aerobatic phases, automatically switching between configurations as required.
• Comprehensive Helicopter Menu — Fully equipped with swash ring control, governor functions, servo travel adjustment, speed compensation and throttle limiter, providing the sophisticated control required for serious helicopter pilots.
• Glider and Sailplane Optimisation — Dedicated menu supporting 13 wing types and 3 tail configurations with extensive mixer selection specifically designed for thermal soaring and slope flying applications.
• Graphical Servo Monitor — Visually display all servo paths with integrated servo test functionality, vibration alarm and advanced timers to diagnose and optimise your model's control response.
• S.Bus Integration — Full S.Bus functionality with dedicated S.Bus port featuring power support enables programming flexibility and comprehensive logging of flight data for analysis and troubleshooting.
• AFR and Curve Programming — Three-mode Automatic Flight Recovery with up to 17 programmable points per curve, plus throttle and pitch curves with identical flexibility, gives you precise control over your model's flight envelope.
• Extensive Mixer Capabilities — 10 optional mixes allow complex control linkages for advanced models, whilst the teacher/student channel assignment feature enables safe training flights with an instructor.
• Ergonomic Control Layout — Six switches, two rotary dials, two linear sliders and six digital trims arranged ergonomically around the transmitter body allow fatigue-free operation during lengthy flights, whilst the included aluminium joystick extensions enable customisation to match your individual grip preference.
• Future-Proof Design — Integrated SD card slot facilitates software updates and model data storage, ensuring your FX36 system remains current with Futaba's latest firmware and remains compatible with future receiver developments.
• Model Memory Conversion — Seamlessly convert model memories from T14SG, T16SZ, T18SZ, FX-22, FX-30 and FX-32 transmitters, protecting your existing configuration investments if you upgrade to the FX36.

Technical Performance

The Futaba FX36 represents professional-grade engineering built to the highest manufacturing standards. Operating on 2.4GHz frequency with 100 mW EIRP transmission power, this system delivers robust signal transmission across the widest possible range whilst maintaining the frequency-hopping spread spectrum (FHSS) security features that modern RC flying demands. The transmitter itself weighs just 900 grams and measures 205 × 220 × 55mm, creating a compact yet sturdy form factor that fits comfortably in your hands during extended flying sessions. The operating voltage range of 6.0–7.4V accommodates various battery configurations, though a 2500mAh Eneloop Pro NiMH battery is included in the box. The included R7208SB receiver provides 8 channels of standard PWM output with 26-channel FASSTest compatibility, delivering the reliable signal reception required for smooth, precise model control. The entire system is built with the quality and precision expected from Japan's leading radio control manufacturer, with components and assembly standards that reflect decades of competition flying experience. Whether you're flying pattern sequences in formation competitions, thermalling in glider championships or executing precision manoeuvres in helicopter contests, the FX36's engineering delivers the reliability and responsiveness you absolutely depend on.

What's in the Box

• Futaba FX36 2.4GHz FASSTest transmitter
• R7208SB 8/26-channel FASSTest receiver
• 6.0V 2500mAh Eneloop Pro NiMH transmitter battery
• Transmitter battery charging cable
• Charging socket switch
• Two aluminium joystick extensions (M4 thread)
• Neutralisation stopper
• Screwdriver
• Printed user manual
• Large aluminium carrying case

What You Need to Complete

• NiMH charger for transmitter battery (required — not included in box)

Frequently Asked Questions

• What types of RC aircraft is the Futaba FX36 suitable for? — The FX36 is designed for fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, gliders and multirotors. Its 18 channels provide sufficient control authority for complex models including aircraft with retractable landing gear, variable geometry wings and sophisticated helicopter swashplates. The dedicated helicopter menu includes governor control and swash ring functions, whilst the glider menu supports 13 wing types and 3 tail configurations, making it versatile across different disciplines.
• Is the Futaba FX36 good for beginners? — This is a professional-grade system designed for experienced pilots and competitive flying. Whilst technically any competent RC pilot can operate it, beginners would benefit more from a simpler entry-level system. However, if you're committed to serious model flying and willing to invest time in learning the comprehensive feature set, the FX36 provides outstanding value with room to grow your skills for years to come. The 14+ age recommendation reflects the system's complexity and the skill required for safe operation.
• What transmission protocols does the FX36 support? — The transmitter supports FASSTest, FASST, T-FHSS and S-FHSS transmission modes, allowing you to select the appropriate receiver for your specific aircraft. FASSTest offers the most advanced frequency-hopping security, whilst FASST provides broader receiver compatibility. This flexibility means you can gradually build a fleet of aircraft with different receiver generations without needing to upgrade all models simultaneously.
• How many model memories can the FX36 store? — The transmitter includes 30 internal model memory slots, allowing you to store complete configurations for 30 different aircraft. This storage capacity can be expanded further using the integrated SD card slot, enabling you to manage an unlimited number of model profiles. The SD card also stores software updates, making future-proofing straightforward.
• What is the touchscreen display like? — The 4.3-inch colour touchscreen features 480 × 272 pixel resolution and provides intuitive menu navigation with support for 9 different language options. The clearly structured menus can be quickly operated, making model configuration faster than traditional button-based systems. Menu layouts are optimised for rapid access to frequently-used functions during field operation.
• What battery does the FX36 transmitter need? — The transmitter operates on 6.0–7.4V and is supplied with a 6.0V 2500mAh Eneloop Pro NiMH battery. A dedicated NiMH charger is required but not included in the box, meaning you'll need to source this separately. The charging cable and socket switch are provided for convenient charging.
• Does the FX36 include a receiver? — Yes, the system includes one R7208SB receiver providing 8 channels of PWM output with 26-channel FASSTest compatibility. This receiver is fully compatible with the transmitter and is ready to use out of the box with your aircraft.
• Can I convert model memories from my existing Futaba transmitter? — Yes, the FX36 supports model memory conversion from T14SG, T16SZ, T18SZ, FX-22, FX-30 and FX-32 transmitters. This protects your existing configuration investments if you're upgrading from an older system.
• What telemetry functions are available? — The FX36 includes extensive telemetry functions similar to the T18MZ transmitter, with voice output available through the built-in speaker or optional headphones. Telemetry data is displayed graphically on the touchscreen and can alert you to critical flight information during flight operations.
• How does the S.Bus integration work? — The dedicated S.Bus port with power support enables advanced programming flexibility and comprehensive logging of flight data. This allows connection to external sensors and devices for enhanced flight monitoring and diagnostics, particularly valuable for competition flying where detailed flight analysis is essential.

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 FX36 18-Channel Air Radio with R7208SB FUT05003203-3 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.