OK, so we all agree it should be a computer radio. Since you have not given us a budget for the radio system or if you need receivers or servos, I will provide some general info. Most of the links are to raids with micro servos. You will want packages with larger servos.
The following is a summary of essential features related to airplanes and
gliders. Some radios include helicopter functions however I don't review
these features. I include links to the manufacturer's/distributor's product
page, where available.
No one ever bought a radio with too much capability. However, if you are
like the rest of us and budget is a factor, I make some special remarks
about how each group would satisfy the needs of various groups of flyers.
These are my own personal value judgments and do not represent a rigorous
evaluation. If you are a serious competitor, consult those who know your
particular field best. I am only trying to provide some thought points for
your consideration.
Sites where you can buy just a radio include:
www.servocity.com
www.allerc.com
www.brucknerhobbies.com
Prices - read the descriptions as prices vary by what is included in the
package.
Radio packages can vary greatly depending on what is included.
Most radios come packaged with standard size servos and receivers. These
packages may not be suitable for electric flyers or some gliders. If I see
a package with small servos and receiver, I note the link for the benefit
of these flyers. Also note that some radio/receiver combos are not suitable
for larger planes due to range considerations. In many cases longer range
receivers are available for these larger planes.Unless noted otherwise, all radios have Low Battery Warning, Digital Trims,
Timers, End Point Adjustment, Dual Rates and Exponential on ailerons and
elevator. Some include rudder too, which is valuable if you are into 3D
flying. All include elevon and V-tail mixes and many include other mixes.
Unless stated otherwise radios do not have support for 4 wing servos or
split elevator ( ailevators) servos.
Entry level Computer Radios 6 channel -
In addition to the basic 4 channels they have retract, flap and/or split
aileron/flapperon capabilities. These make great first radios for the
committed new pilot, providing features beyond the 4 channel "standard"
radios at a small incremental investment. For many pilots, these may be
all the radio they will need for years.
With these systems you can more advanced planes but may not be
able to bring out all the plane can offer. They will fly full house
sailplanes
but will not provide many of the surfaces mixes that competition sailplane
pilots want.
Futaba EXAS - $160 for this package
http://www.futaba-rc.com/radios/futk54.html
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin...=LXJUV7**&P=ML
review
http://www.rcuniverse.com/magazine/a...article_id=556
See it being programmed
http://video1.hobbico.com/gallery/futk52-58-deluxe.mpg
6 channels, 6-model memory, Proportional Flaps on ch 6, Flapperon using 1/6,
and 1 user definable mix. Expo rudder, elevator and ailerons. The
particular package I have listed at tower comes with 3 micro servos
and a micro receiver suitable for parkflyers but not larger planes.
Other packages are available
JR Sport 600 - $159 for this package
http://www.horizonhobby.com/Products...dID=JSP16000**
10-model memory, DR for aileron and elevator. No mention of Expo
Flaperons, Delta/Elevon and V-tail mixing. Includes receiver and
4 standard sized servos which are not suitable for many small planes.
Airtronics VG 6000 $175 package
http://www.airtronics.net/VG6000.htm
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin...I=LXEUY5**&P=7
This particular package is very attractive for small electrics. Comes with
two small servos and a 20 amp ESC. 6 channels, 4 model memories. In
addition to four predefined surface mixes. expo on elevator and ailerons
only.