G'day

I started out learning to fly RC models about 1989 when I was about 40. I wish I had had the choices available to you today. I bought a simple radio and ended up owning about 5 radios as every new model needed a new radio. Much better to buy a slightly up market model. You do not need 8 or 9 channels as even today when I have about 30 planes ready to fly, I still use 6 and 7 channel radios. My favourite radio (value for money and easy to use) is the Hitec Optic 6. It has been around for ages and now in 2.4 gig form it is really great value and easy to use. I also use a Spektrum DX7 which I love too but its receivers are far more expensive then the Hitec ones. I am still using older FM radios (JR 2610) and I use them with the Spektrum on buddy cords. Before you buy, check to see what radio your teacher will be using. All the major brands are good and all the newer radios can be used with buddy systems.

Your choice of the Kadet LT 40 is a good one and building it rather than buying (if you could) the ARF is good too. You will build a better model than the ARF even if it is a first effort. The Sig instructions are great. Take your time, enjoy the build and have fun.

Simulators are great for giving you "stick time" but they do not really emulate the real flying feel. It is generally easier to fly a simulator than a real model. The Phoenix and cheaper Real Flite would be my choice. The Phoenix actually gives you a usable Spectrum 6 channel radio. Just buy a receiver and you can fly. I have the older Realflight 4.5 and I wish I had bought one of the cheaper ones.

When you come to buy an engine for your model you will find there is a vast array of engines out there from $50 to forever. The cheap ones are OK so long as you can get some help but lately I have taken to buying mostly Saito four strokes for their ease of use, great sound and extreme long lasting qualities. They are not cheap but they keep giving long after the $50 Chinese engines are dead and buried. They will run happily on 5 to 10% nitro, are light on fuel and just keep delighting me. A Saito 56 would be perfect in your LT. My LT-40 originally had a Saito 56 but is currently powered by a very old Saito 45 which has had a "cam transplant" from a 56. The cam upgrade has given it significantly more power.

Cheers

Mike in Oz