Here's my take on it. I should have bought my HT Prism (7-channel) first, and started doing anything I want with it (including buddy cord train with Futaba students.)

Plus, it has separate switches for dual rate elevator, aileron and rudder (some radios lack the Rudder dual rate, I like it.)

Plus, I can operate both type receivers (Positive & Negative "shift"), while JR & Futaba don't have the select shift option. (Airtronics offers that feature.)

Plus, HT offers the "Spectra" module, which allows you to select the frequency, operate on any of the 50 frequencies available.

If you can find one, the price will be decent, they're out of production. However, I understand the Eclipse is even better. For a first radio, either will go a LONG ways.

Now, having said that... I like my Multiplex too, although it only does positive shift. And, just one dual rate switch for A/E/R. And, I like my Tracker, though it has no trainer cord feature.

And, finally, I'll mention that my very favorite plane (a Meister Corsair) still flies frequently, with my ancient Airtronics Vanguard non-computer 6-channel. It is perfectly adequate for anything I do with that plane, (and that includes ordinary aerobatics), has dual rates (on elevator & ailerons) and retract & flap switches.

Happy radio hunting!
Dave Olson