My two cents (you can give back change if you deem it appropriate.) I like the 7CAP Futaba over the 6 channel simply because it does have more that you can grow into. My dad purchased the 6AEX or something like that and when I fly or set up his planes, I'm always wishing that his radio had some of the stuff that I'm accustomed to on mine. I agree that anyone looking to get a new radio should seriously look at the 2.4 units just coming out like the DX-7 or possibly the new Futaba. Only problem is that the new Futaba 2.4 is based off of the 6 channel radio like my dad's. If it was the 7CAP, it would be a home run for me (IMHO). I'd like to step up to this new technology but I feel that while the transmission of the radio would be better and safer, the actual unit I'd be doing it on would be inferior to what I've got now. Once again, IMHO.

I've got little or no experience with the Spektrum units but more and more guys at the field are using them.

Welcome to R/C and enjoy that Telemaster! I've still got my trainer and in fact, have been flying that more than most of the others lately.