Gotta agree totally, I have two 9C's the original and the super. Also 9Z. The 9C should keep you happy in this hobby for years. At most all events, it seems to be the most popular radio and so easy to program. Had several fellow pilots go to the 7c, only to run out of capacity a year or so later and end up with the 9C anyway.
ORIGINAL: RVator
I would say a Futaba 9C. Sooner of later the 7 will not be able to do all the mixes you will want, the 9 will. You can buy one transmitter only from
www.servocity.com for $289.00