The Spektrum DX7 is a great radio system, but it's not without some downsides. At $310 minimum street price, it's not inexpensive. Because it's a 2.4Ghz spread spectrum system, the receivers and transmitter are all proprietary PCM in format. The transmitter can't broadcast in FM, and will only work with proprietary Spektrum 2.4Ghz receivers. Obviously a great deal of RC pilots have decided that this system is still well worth the cost, as the DX7 is a huge sales success.

Any of the available basic 6-channel computer radios would be a good choice to start out with. Airtronics, Hitec, Futaba, and JR all make computerized 6-channel air radios in the $160 price neighborhood that boast a nice selection of features and include a full flight pack.

One in particular, the JR Sport SX600 radio system, is worth a second look if you think there might be a DX7 in your future:

http://www.horizonhobby.com/Products...dID=JSP16000**

This particular 6-channel computer radio can be buddy boxed to a DX7, so it can still be useful down the road if you decide to go with a Spektrum system down the road.

I feel that $310 plus shipping and/or sales tax is simply too much to ask a brand new pilot to pay for a radio system, wonderful though the technology is. You could buy the JR Sport SX600, a World Models Sky Raider Mach I, and a Super Tigre GS-40 engine and have a complete trainer system with computer radio for less than a DX7. Having a bullet-proof radio system isn't really that helpful if you can't afford a plane to fly it with.