RE: do you really need a computer radio????
Another consideration for a new R/Cer is the fact that when you get your instructor to buddy-box you, remember who is going to be holding the computer radio and who is going to have what is most likely to be a four channel buddy-box.
I have been flying r/c since 1966. Have been instructing since 1973. Have never used more than 4 channels. Have only used dual rates in the last 4 years. Computer radios are nice. Some planes require them or mechanical mixers. I now have three, racers on one, trainers on the second, and electrics on the Spectrum.
Still believe that a beginner benefits from learning to set everything up. Also, as mentioned before, the complete 4-channel radio usually costs only $10.00 or so more than a flight pack, and you get a transmitter battery. No money is wasted, as you are going to buy the computer radio system complete for that second plane.
Soapbox.
Enjoy the flying,
Ken, AMA 19352