RE: Predator 500 setup?
The easiest, cheapest route would be Hitec 225 servos for elevator halves and aileron, and a Hitec 85 for throttle. For receiver look at the Hitec 555 or Electron 6.
Another option about the same price, would be to replace the 225 servos with Expert SL451's from Horizon Hobby. I've been using them for a bit, and like them a little better than the Hitec servos.
For the battery, if your going with Nicads, looks for a 350 mah pack. I prefer the NIMH batteries, and go with either the 500 mah or 720 mah pack.
As to switches, I've used all of them, and the only one I really trust is the larger JR deluxe Gold Switch. I've had failures with the cheaper switches and go with a heavier switch due to its reliability.