Don, I just started another thread without knowing about this one. See it
here.
But the first thing that comes to mind in this thread is: you're getting a new bird and the first thing you want to do is push it to the limit, or in the above recommendations, push it BEYOND spec into limits it wasn't designed for?
I mean, I'm not dumping on the above folk modifying their kits, but it seems to me that as a new flyer, you're best served by learning how to fly the thing as it comes out of the box first. Figure out the built-in limitations over time, and even before that, learn how to just fly it in beginner mode.
There are also many failsafe scenarios to know about, when you try to push distance limits, that you will want to be prepared for. Such as the scenery is like around your flying location, what to set the RTH height for to be sure it doesn't crash into buildings on the way home after it loses signal with your remote, what are your other options for when signal is lost besides RTH (land on the spot, or hover), etc.
Does anyone not agree with this approach?
Chris