In my opinion, your right to not "skimp out" as it indeed the bit that connects you to the aircraft. RcKen and others are right that any of the mainstream brands will help you (I use a specktrum DX8 myself now as my first set was a Dx6i), although there are things like the FrSky Taranis (IF you could find someone with on ex shelf) that are opening up a LOT of options out there.
As far as functionality goes, I'd look for a system with telemetry as getting real time information from your aircraft on things like battery voltage, engine temp etc makes a LOT of sense. I'd also see IF you could find something that can have it's firmware upgraded via the net as that will help with future proofing.
With regards to stand alone value for money right now (excluding the Taranis) the Futuba 14ch radio is a hard act to beat (http://www.futaba-rc.com/systems/fut...4sg/index.html). It has telmetry, the ability to run all 3 of Futuba's 2.4 protocols, 3 axis gyro (heli) settings inbuilt etc etc - and is like only US$600 at tower hobbies. all for a bullet proof system that I cannot see ANY newbie outgrowing for many years, if at all.
That said, as others have eluded to, find out what the main brand is at a club you'd like to fly at. I didn't, and it's a pain in the bum when trying to find SOMEONE to work with on a new aircraft for maidens etc as I can't buddybox or use their settings off similar models etc (most folk at my local club use Futuba and fly mode 1 like most people here in NZ, and I don't, and it has cost me re time and progression over the years that is for sure).
Either way, if I was you I'd take into account the advice above, and just get the best system you can afford (all the top brands are really good), as no-one here will EVER state that they could not fly any aircraft as they had too many channels, and the same cannot be said in reverse!