RE: Radio Choice?
Nope...
You must match manufacturers...
So if you use a Spectrum ( or JR since they are the same thing electronically ) TX you'll need a Spektrum or JR receiver.
There are cheaper "clone" RX's available for JR/Spektrums that will also work.
Likewise there are clone RX's availabe for Futaba as well, though I have not played with those.
My experience with the JR/Spectrum clones has been mixed.
Some work wonderfully without a glitch or problem... other from the same manufacturer have major problems.
E.g. I'll never use a 6 channel "orange" RX again, but the 4 channel has been reliable as anything else. The 7 and 9 channel have tested fairly well thus far.