Piper_chuck - thanks for the post.

> have you set a budget?
I'd like to top out at 250. Might be a little low...

> You said you want to begin with electric. Is your choice of electrics based on cost, quiet flight, being able to fly in
> smaller fields, because you think they are easier, or just because you like the idea of electrics?
Hmmm. For one, I don't like the stink. Or the fluids to mess with. More moving parts, too. For a trainer, I'd prefer quieter flight. Once I get into scale, I probably can't avoid the 4stroke glows. In this day of LiPo and brushless etc, I think it's a fine alternative, if I can make it so.

> Only after you've chosen what kind and size plane you want to fly
Well - err. a docile trainer would be good. I'll take your input, and check them out in the field.

> should you try to narrow down your radio choice.
Make sense - don't HAVE to have more than 4 channels. But if it's true that the cost difference between a 4ch and a 5/6ch is small (which seems to be between 0-50$), and if I should go with spearate radio/plane, then why not. My son is, at 5, much less interested in taking off and landing than in crashing the plane (boy, did we ever go through the video section...) and gimmicks such as releasing a parachute with doll from the plane...

> learned on less expensive radios, and have continued to enjoy the hobby without "jonesing" the more expensive radios.
Totally hear that, and my wife sends a hug

All said - I want to make a reasonable decision based on needs/purpose. All your feedback helps - really.

Thanks a bunch!