I can't tell you a lot about the spectrum. Everyone says it's the future of radios but like you said, what about a buddy box?. I'd probably stay with JR or Futaba until that question is answered. Look for the easiest to program for future use. A computer radio is easiest to set up because you can electronically set up your throws and you can program more than one aircraft into the same radio and the fine tuning stays with that aircraft program. Something new is being able to select different channels on your radio so if you get to a busy field and want to fly and 3 other people are on the same channel waiting in line to fly. Just select a different channel on the radio, match the radio and the receiver and fly.