I would buy a Futaba 9C or the JR equivalent depending on what most at your club fly. Either can take you from beginner the the ultimate in advanced flying, heli, jets, 3D, sailplanes,, whatever. . You can pick one up for about $300-400 depending on what package bundle you choose. I fly the Futaba 9CAP, its a killer transmitter and really easy to program once you get the basics which is you have any computer skills at all,,,, it will be easy for you.. There are lesser computer radio alternatives for less money, but if you have the money to spend trust me.. You will not be disappointed. And unless you just want to upgrade,, short of a major technology change you will never NEED another transmitter. And remember, with a CAMPAC (included with most 9C pakages) you can hold about 16 planes. All you need to to is buy the receiver for each additional plane you want to fly... And it will accept either PCM of FM (PPM).