I started flying last year and acquired inexpensive Tower and Futaba 4 channel radios. I soon moved up to the 6EXA. The 6 channel is still fine for me. I'm using the Futaba 4 channel Skysport radio on FMS for simulator duty and as a buddy box to get my 10yr old started flying. I ordered my son his first radio yesterday. I got him a 9C. I don't need any more buddy boxes and I figure if he stays interested it will make more sense than buying him progressively better radios. I also wanted the ability to change frequencies so he can grab my planes and fly them. If you are going to want a buddy box some day, the four channel radios are almost free compared to a flight pack without the radio. If you have money burning a hole in your pocket, you can't go wrong with the 9C.

If my son should ever lose interest in model planes there will be a deal so I can pick the 9C up from him for $50.