As far as the radio, I think the best is always look at the local flying field. Since you are a beginner, nothing is more convenient than a couple of people that can give you on-site support for your radio.

Most of the people at my field have Futabas and so whenever I have any problems or want to borrow someone's tx for training, I have no problems. Newbies, who are always taken aback by the look of the JR (I love them over the Futaba's too) buy them and then have a really hard time finding a person that can take them up on a buddy box.

On that note, what do you have now? Just think that if you stay with the same brand, you will be able to teach your friends.

The 6102 is a great radio, but I'd recommend you go with the flow.

As for a second plane, I recommend my favorite WM rambler 30... nicest flying ARF on the market and it's a looker, too!