KO Propo Systems
 

I'm shopping around for a mid-grade transmitter. My budget is $200-$300 for a good quality and reliable system. I like the modular features of the KO Propo products. Being able to replace malfunctioning parts individually is always a plus IMO. Retail availability seems to be pretty sparse though.

The EX-II is right in my price range, but online it seems to be listed out of stock or discontinued even though the KO Propo America site says it's current. I prefer a conventional trigger over the lay flat trigger of the other upscale models.

Past and present users, how do you rate KO Propo systems? How is their technical / logistical support in the U.S.? Is it worth giving them a try or just stick with the current BIG TWO?

Thanks.

Deffo worth it imo. I have it's posh cousin, the EX-RR, although the older one with the conventional trigger. Bear in mind the EX-II only has 2 channels, so you can only run conventional models. No 2/3 speeds, 4WS, winch or anything like that.
I prefer the ergonomics and lighter weight, although the build quality is creakier than before (but still good), and the other 2 brands have become less creakier than ever...
The menu and features are somewhat easier to use and you can customize everything to the hilt, which is good for ergonomics and it stands out from other TXs on the bench.
Transportation is a nightmare though, especially with the drop down or stick extension, you either need a bag with a DIY insert, or you disassemble it everytime and reassemble, taking the utmost care, like me.
Loves to absolutely chew through AAA batteries though, so I recommend buying those in bulk. It will easily drain 4 AAA batteries in 2 days, and that's with me switching it off in the pits half the time.
Definitely worth it, but I'm not in the US, the US distributor is RCAmerica, the Xray guys. They seem to be OK from what I've read....

I’ve had great luck with my EX-II Expert. Bought everything from Absolute Hobbyz, they are the North American distributors for KO. Very knowledgeable about the product with good stock.
KO seems to be the last of the Japanese companies that still make all their products in Japan. (To my knowledge) I believe Sanwa and Futaba moved production to Taiwan/China. Not a deal breaker by any means as the majority of RC products are made in China it seems.
I like how modular the tx is, main components break down, grips are adjustable, the trigger is fully adjustable, the reverse/brake arm is “ball mounted” and can swivel to custom fit your finger. Menus are dead simple to navigate, black and white lcd, easy to read. No color touch screen, kinda what drew me to it, simple and reliable. You can get an optional lipo battery with base etc.

I love my KO's. I have been using them since the Euros. I currently use a LDT, but after 3 months I am just starting to like it and almost switched back. My kids use a EX-RR and EX-2. Completely reliable without issues. Definitely invest in the LiPo base and LiPo. New radios will be here at the end of the month, so any EX-RR's in stock will likely be discounted. There were a few for sale and a huge discount in the for sale section here. I would have no worries buying a second hand transmitter and receiver.

KO were always my favorite. Last one I owned was an EX1. When I came back to the hobby after 15 years, I went with Sanwa. Still look at KO alot though to replace the Sanwa.

Thanks for the input, everyone. I'll be keeping my eye out for deals and for when their new products are on the market.