Look at this before you make your final decision:
JR J-Line Quattro Trainer Set $49.95
http://www.horizonhobby.com/Shop/ByC...ProdID=JRPA400
Eveything you need to have your own 'buddy box' to go with the Alpha RTF.

I do not think there's anything wrong with being the 'one percent' at your field that uses something other than Futaba.

I have Futaba (and really like it) but the reason is a specific programming ability, not brand loyalty or peer pressure. Where I fly, Futaba is dominant with Hitec second. We have a few who use JR, including a current student. He knew JR was not common, but a nephew offered to give him a nice 6 channel JR system so he didn't turn it down. He spent the 50 bucks for the trainer set and his instructor (a Futaba user) is perfectly happy using the JR equipment.

Another Hangar 9 RTF you might consider is the Arrow. Same engine and radio as the Alpha but has semi-symmetrical airfoil for better aerobatic performance.
http://www.horizonhobby.com/Shop/ByC...ProdID=HAN2550