The JR XP7202 and the Spektrum DX7 are very similar radio systems. The DX7 works on the new 2.4Ghz spread spectrum technology. The XP7202 works on the traditional 72Mhz channels, but is fully synthesized meaning that transmitter and receiver can be changed to whatever channel the pilot wishes to use. Both of these are advanced radio systems with all of the features you could possibly need for the forseeable future.

With both radio systems available in the $300 to $350 range, if this price range is acceptable for you then either would be a terrific pick.

JR also makes a really nice budget 6-channel radio system under their JR Sport brand called the SX600. It's a 6-channel computer radio with 10-model memory and a nice set of commonly used airplane features for $159.99, including a full flight pack. It's a standard FM radio system, so it won't be quite as bulletproof with regard to radio interference as the PCM-based XP7202 or the 2.4Ghz DX7. It's simply a nice traditional 6-channel computer radio at a great price.

All three of these radios would work with the "free" JR buddy box available through the AMA.

Another great radio package that is often overlooked is the Airtronics RD8000. The RD8000 is a feature-rich FM radio system for airplanes, gliders, and helicopters. It has all of the advanced programming features available in the more expensive JR XP7202 and Spektrum DX7, and it even has 1 extra channel available. It doesn't have the state-of-the-art channel selection and interference protection of the JR systems, it's just a really good advanced FM radio system for around $250.

Obviously, if you choose the Airtronics RD8000 radio system, you would want to request the Airtronics buddy box rather than the JR.