Vhayne, sounds like you're making progress. There are several computer radio choices in the $160-180 range. Before settling on a particular radio, you should also decide what you're going to do for a plane. If you are going with a small electric, it would be good to choose a radio that comes with a small receiver and small servos. If after visiting the field you decide you like glow engines, then standard size components work well for the typical .40 size trainer. You've got lots of choices and many decisions to make, and it looks like you're doing your homework. Keep studying and asking questions. You'll find many of us have different opinions, and you'll also discover that there is usually more than one right answer.

If you happen to be making a trip East on a weekend, send me a PM a couple days ahead of time and I'll show you my field. It's on the shore of Lake Jordan right off US-64.