One thing that hasn't been mentioned that was actually the single biggest factor in the purchase of my first radio, what brand of radio do the instructors at your field use? At my field is was Airtronics, and that is what I fly now. It makes absolutely no sense what so ever to buy a radio brand that your instructors don't know about, or don't have a buddy box for. Get in contact with those that will be instructing you and see what they recommend and then make your choice.

Ken