He said in the original post:
I know it sounds like I'm jumping into this head first, but I plan to start with a very simple trainer and to have an instructor help at my local airfield.


Flatfoot,
I started learning to fly in early 2002. I got the Futaba 6XAS to start. The 4 channel radios were $120-150 at the time and the 6 chanel computer radio was around $220. I think getting a fairly basic computer radio is a good choice. You can get your model set up very closely with mechanical adjustments, then fine tune it with the transmitter.

Unless your budget is 'unlimited' I would go somewhere in the middle.

Before spending any money you should contact the instructor who will be helping you. Talk about your hobby plans and goals and get his recommendation, especially concerning compatibility with trainer boxes, cords, etc.