Product review (5 stars): Spektrum DX8
I purchased the DX8 about two months ago. My purchase came about as a result of buying the Blade SR 120 heli.
The SR 120 was almost impossible for me to control using the radio that came with my  Blade MCX2. (The ready to fly SR 120 comes with the same radio that came with the MCX2 ready to fly).
 After doing some reading I felt that a better radio would allow me to fly the SR 120 much better. And that was indeed the case! The DX8 allowed me to "tone down" the SR 120 by decreasing the throttle, elevator, and aileron inputs. I was then able to actually fly the SR 120 and get some great indoor practice.
 If you are a beginner, don't let the array of switches scare you off. Each one has a purpose and with some study and experimenting you will come to understand them pretty quickly. There are also a lot of videos on the net to help.
 I have augmented my heli purchases with the recent acquisition of the Blade 350QX quadcopter. It requires a minimum of 6 channels to operate. The DX8 is 8 channels and works beautifully. With the backlit screen it is great for indoor and late evening use. The backlit screen is worth the extra money. You will appreciate it almost immediately.
 The sticks are very smooth and allow small inputs with ease. And you can store up to 30 different models. If you have more than one heli or plane you just hit a couple of buttons and you now have the parameters to fly that model. Sure beats having to trim each one all over again.
 The DX8 comes with a NiCad battery pack. I fly a at least 20 times a week and the charge lasts about two weeks on average. I consider this very adequate. A neck strap is also included, and sure helps ease arm fatigue.
 Overall I am very pleased with the DX8. I have had no problems of any kind. I realize it is only a couple of months old, but many electronic gadgets tend to show problems early if they exist.
 If you have the resources, I recommend this radio. I do not think you will be disappointed. I gave the full 5 stars and truly believe it deserves it.