Just getting started in RC and naturally my interest is split between opposite ends of the spectrum, sailplanes and helicopters. I'm starting with a Blade CX helicopter, that comes RTF with a TX. Until I move up all bases are covered with the heli. On the sailplane end my instructor has recommended I start with a Zagi, due to their nearly indestructible nature, and all around good fun. Trick RC sells the Zagi in several combos. One includes a Hitec Neon FS 3 radio. The radio, which seems to be a high quality single stick unit, covers everything I can do with a Zagi and most beginner sailplanes, but, has limited move up capability. Everything I've read says go cheap on the first plane, but, not so on a first radio. To that end, I'm looking at several mid range radios. They are the Hitec Optic 6 and Hitec Eclipse 7, as well as the Futaba 9caf.
Here's my question: As I read the description of these radios it mentions that they have airplane/sailplane/helicopter programing capabilities. Does that mean that each of these radios comes with the programing for each pre-installed? So, as I move up, any of these TX could fit the bill as I move between helicopters and gliders? Or, does it mean that the radio is capable of being programed for each, but comes only programed for one? Do I need two radios? Lastly, the Hitec tx are available with a spectra module that allows frequency switching. Is this something I should get if I go Hitec? Thanks for staying with me on my first post here