Novak is for brushed motors only.
Mamba esc is not even close to the smooth, predictable, linear control offered by the Novak or the LRP. It is worthwhile though. The lack of maintainance makes it tollerable.
We have raced M18s since they came out. And have tried most motor/esc/battery systems available. Everyone in the open class uses the Mamba 8000 with liPo batteries. I put the smallest pinion on the motor & set the profiles for min start power and min timing. Also set the throttle end point to about 50% (after callibrating esc to tx). Our track size is 34' X 19'. Gearing & tx end point can be changed to suit any track size.