Spektrum DX3S, yes, no, why

[V0RT3X]

Need a new radio since I got my brushless e-revo. Currently on 35mhz sticks and I hate that I have to stick the antenna high out of the body to get any range. The tube then gets pinched and scratched and eventually falls off. I see that 2.4ghz receivers have very short antennas that can be hidden in the body. Does it effect range if you have it sticking out, high in the air? (as much as you can)

I don't really need the 3R version, since you have to use more expensive DSM2 receivers to use 5.5ms response time. Can you even notice it while bashing? I'll be getting the ACE Ds1015 servo with 0.10 transit time.

Does the wheel and the trigger feel cheap? Don't want that.

I'd look into the Futaba 3PM, but I don't like the looks of it and there's a new model coming. Plus Futaba receivers have longer antennas and are more expensive.

All in all, worth it? Can you mod it for 5 batts?