The one big question is.. Do you need all the bells and whistles for your first Tx? For your first few years of flying?

For me, the 6XAS is perfect. It has teh computer bits, and hold 6 models. For me that's plenty. Gear and flaps are all I really need as well.

As FH meant to say, Mech trims are easier on the novice, and when you're fumbling to dial in a bit of trim, you can tell when too much is too much.

My opinion, go with the 6XAS for now. When you get into the 3D stuff, and splurge on the 33% Carden, buy the 8UA then.

It sounds like the LHS guy is trying to convince you that you need these extra bits. Timer - steal you mom's egg timer.. Switches, the 6XAS can reverse them as well. Although they do not have the 3 steps. exponential and channel coupling, the 6XAS has them as well.

Save the extra $$$ and buy yourself a 4-star for when the time comes for a second plane.. and save up for a flight pack.

remeber, both the 6 & 8 channel Tx come with the same RX, the same 4 servos, and teh same battery pack...