The Hitec 5 Flash does seem to offer pretty good features for the price, and is just within my preferred price range. Picking a brand and sticking to it does seem like a very good idea. The top end Hitecs seem to have less features than the higher end Futaba or JR systems though.

Would it be worthwhile to spend the extra cash now and start with a somewhat high end Tx? I am not sure my budget will allow this, but I have a bit more time to save up since it is way too cold for me to stand about outside right now.

Another question, when I buy a radio package (Tx,Rx,servo's etc) does it come with crystals? I know the Rx units have crystals sold separately.

Thanks!