One thing you will need to be aware of is that while Phoenix is a great tool (I consider my copy one of the best investments in the hobby I ever made - it has saved me $$$'s already), actual flying will feel a little bit different than the sim does in the 'way' things actually fly, as while good, the physics are still only a simulation.
Even if you get yourself an easy to fly trainer, if you can, please go to a club, have an experienced flyer go over it to ensure your not missing anything out and that your CG is correct, then trim it up for you before giving the controls back.
The time you have spent on your sim will speed up your learning curve, and you will have at least 'some' thumb memory by now, so you should progress well once you have a few supervised flights under your belt.
As for radio choice, I'd ask yourself where you see yourself progressing in the hobby, then get the best radio YOU CAN AFFORD that has enough functions to match that direction (ie, go computerized/programmable). Warbirds/scale can need a LOT of channels (my mustang has 9 servos in it, 10 on 11 channels if I add a choke servo and remote ignition kill for the gas motor and don't want to run 'Y' leads), while 'smaller' 3D/aerobatic planes up to 30-50CC can get away with say 6-7 channels/servos. Do go 2.4g since you are starting out though.
Best of luck, and welcome aboard this hobby train!