77- Yes. My point is there is no tail rotor "pre-load" waiting to roll you over when SAS is removed. But, I believe most pilots have little appreciation for just how demanding an unaugmented -76 is above 145kts. This is why I suggest all have a look at it first hand.
Also, the C++ certainly has a manual reversion mode. Controlled by a small DC motor on the fuel controller, commanded by a incr/dinker thumb switch on the collective. Again, something everybody should be practicing, especially in the C++ since you can't hurt the machine. The DECU will kick you out of manual mode and resume engine control if you go outside any limit.
HO5S