If you get the Raptor, the GY401 w/digital servo is your best bet. Not the cheapest, but it will hold the tail solid and make learning much easier. For the radio, either buy a cheaper six channel like the Hitec or a nice 7 to 9 channel. JR and Futaba are both good, it's really personal preference. If you buy a six channel, you will outgrow it pretty fast. A 7/9 channel will last a lot longer. The four servos that come with you radio package should be fine for learning. Check out the new Specktrum DX7. The new Spread Spectrum is a new technology but no glitch problems is sure enticing.

If you decided to go electric, I would get the TRex. Not only does it fly more like a nitro than the smaller electrics, it is set up more like the nitros. The skills you learn setting up and flying a TRex will translate easily to a nitro. The Trex would also be easier to build under your $700-800 budget. Helihobby has a lot of TRex packages. Check them out.

How big is your yard? Mine has about 60ftx60ft of good flying space and ran out of things to do with my 30 nitro in that space in about three months(lots of good hovering practice though). I then bought a Blade CP which couldn't handle the wind. Then got a TRex and it has been great. Still can't do any FFF in the backyard but hovering from all directions and figure-eights work well. Just make sure to leave yourself enough room to recover. I probably could learn nose-in hover with the nitro but a small space leaves no room for error and error translate into repair money that could be spent on your next helicopter.

My advice would be to get a Raptor if you can afford it and have the space to fly it. If not get the TRex, it's cheaper and won't annoy the neighbors quite so much. Regardless, both are well supported by vendors and the online community. You won't be disappointed either way.

Oh, BTW, helicopters are way more fun than airplanes.