My favorite radios are Futaba and Hitec. The Hitec radios are a lot of bang for the buck, and the accessories are cheaper than Futaba, too. Great value. Your thinking is right, get something with enough channels and features so you don't need to upgrade any time soon.

As for engines, get the AX. It's a better, more powerful engine than the LA, and will last through your next few sport-type planes.

Dr.1