I would go for the 4 channel with ailerons. Contrary to what most say, in my opinion, it is easier to learn with ailerons than it is with rudder. Yes, the plane reacts quicker, but with the new TX's now, you can program Dual Rates, Exponentials and End Point Adjustments, to help the learning curve with the ailerons, plus it is just easier to turn with ailerons. You never really use the rudder in the air anyway, only on the ground when taxiing. So you are still using three channels when flying, so the number of control variables stays the same as it would have been if you were just flying a true 3 channel. My very first plane was a 4 channel Cessna 182. Yes, it was crashed, but that is all part of the fun right
. You have to crash to learn the process and get better. I have rebuilt/glued the plane back together twice, and have not crashed in my last 20+ flights. GO FOR THE AILERONS!!
Take a look at these links: I would recommend the first one
http://www.e-fliterc.com/Products/De...ProdID=EFL2200
http://www.hobby-lobby.com/cessna182.htm
If you are set on a 3 channel look at something like this, or a type of glider that will gain enough altitude to allow you to fly for an extended period of time and play with the controls, there are some 4 channel gliders as well:
http://www.hobby-lobby.com/easystar.htm
This is more of an advanced glider, but worth looking at
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin...?&I=LXHPD0&P=7
For radio equip. I would recommend this:
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin...I=LXJUV7**&P=0