Without knowing what you might do in the future, it's hard to predict whether you will need just 4, maybe 6, or even more channels. I tend toward more basic models, so a 4 channel would be fine for me. However, I have a 6 channel computer model (Futaba 6EXA) to take advantage of some of the computer features. As far as brand, if most of the instructors have a particular brand then it might be useful to go with that so you have buddy box compatability. Around here Futaba and JR are considered most reliable.