Hitec Aggressor CRX Spectra

Introduction

Swapping the stock radio for an aftermarket radio is an upgrade that is quite common in the RC world. There's several good reasons that this upgrade can benefit your truck. Obviously more features such as adjustable endpoints and digital trims are always handy on a radio. You'll also find that switching to an FM radio provides a much cleaner and glitch-resistant signal than an AM radio does. However there's one feature that's been making a big splash recently, and the Hitec Aggressor CRX offers it as an option. This feature is synthesized operation.

While the Aggressor CRX comes in several different configurations, this review is based off of Hitec Part #127755. This set comes complete with a radio, receiver, rechargeable transmitter pack, charger. The radio comes with the Hitec Spectra module, and the included receiver is the Novak XXTRA. These two items give you synthesized operation, and allow you to free yourself from having to use crystals.

This radio package is one of the best sets I've come across, for several reasons. For starters, it doesn't include servos, and while at times that can be a benefit, many times when you're in the market for a better radio you've already upgraded the servos. So you're not paying for anything you're not going to use. I also like the fact that the set includes a rechargeable transmitter pack and a charger. Most manufacturers do not offer a combo with batteries and charger included, so you're required to purchase it separately.

While the Spectra module and Novak receiver are obviously the biggest additions in this set, the radio can be purchased without them as well. That gives you the option of upgrading to synthesized operation later on if you wish. Regardless of which configuration Hitec Aggressor CRX you purchase, the list of features is very impressive. Here's a quick rundown.

• 20 Model Memory
• LCD Menu Screen
• Dual Rate Steering
• Adjustable End Points
• Servo Reversing
• Trim Adjustments
• Subtrim Adjustments
• 3 Channels
• Anti-Lock Braking
• Low Transmitter Voltage Alarm
• Synthesized (With Spectra Module)
• Built in Charging Jack

The first thing some people may notice, is what initially seems to be a fairly high price. However once you price a high end radio in similar synthesized trim, you'll quickly see that the Hitec is much more affordable and yet still holds it own when it comes to the features. It even improves on the high end radios is several areas, such as more available memory slots and the fact it can include the rechargeable battery and charger. All in all, the Hitec Aggressor CRX, is one well rounded radio/receiver combo package.

Part One:	Introduction
Part Two:	Installation
Part Three:	Testing and Final Thoughts