Hello Hydro. I was just trying to help a returning pilot to use what he had with the smallest amount of money spent. Most likely with new batteries and a thorough check out his old radios will get him in the air. But if he decides he likes it then a radio upgrade might be in order. I look at upgrading what I have to one transmitter and replacement recieivers for the flying models I have now. I admit I am behind the curve. I just can't decide on a transmitter. But I will most likely go with the Futaba. I have spent a little time quizzing the guys at the field about what radio to get and that seems to be the most common answer.
2) The manufacturer can sell the required battery packs and servos at a higher profit margin than what they would have gotten if sold as part of a complete set.
That was the best statement in your post. The profit margin is higher. Not all new or returning pilots are familiar with whats offered or required. A good basic radio set up sounds like a good place to start. The most common upgrade may be the servos. The basic servos will work for sport planes like a big stik 40. Bigger/faster planes. Bigger/faster servos.
But now there are all manor of choices for a new radio buyer. The hobby has just grown a tremendous amount since when I started with a Kraft KP-4A and a little stik in 1978. But thats good isn't it?