How serious you are about the hobby?? I have found that new flyers either jump right in and do it right or go the cheaper route. The ones that get a 40 sized trainer with a good engine and a new 4 channel radio pass their wings and do well in the hobby. 3 channel radios have limited range and wouldn't be allowed at an RC club. Most planes have 4 channels with larger planes having 5 or 6 channels. You will need to learn to use 4 channels for basic operation. It isn't hard but does take a bit of time. The majority of new flyers that buy small foamy planes with 3 channel radios have disappointing results. Then they either soon give up on the whole idea or, if they are still interested they start over the right way and replace everything.