RE: JR/Hitech/Futaba ?
I feel strongly both ways...
Actually, I have 2 JR XF-631's and a Fubtaba 6DA. I like the computer controls on the JR's. The trim doesn't change when you toss it on the car seat. (Don't ask me why I know this... What a ride, but all my fault!) On the Futaba, I bought it because it has a proportional flap channel, which is good if you want to add silliness that needs to be more versatile than ON/OFF.
Both makes are very responsive and great to fly with, but I am a little disappointed that the JR XF-631 does not allow flap-flaperon/elevator mixing, unless I am reading the manual wrong.
On the whole, I have to cast my lot in with JR, but it's purely a personal choice with no hard data to back it up!
Just my $.02
Ed