The best value in a beginner's radio going away is the Hitec Optic Sport model 159721 for $169.99:

http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin...I=LXPTT7**&P=7

The Optic Sport is a 6-channel 72Mhz computerized radio system. The 159721 package includes a HFD-08RO 8-channel receiver, four HS-325HB ball-bearing servos, rechargable NiCd packs for transmitter and receiver, and AC charger.

It features a 10-model memory, is shift-selectable so it can work with JR/Airtronics receivers or Futaba/Tower/Hobbico receivers. It also boasts a wide array of mixing , dual rate, and exponential features and can handle fixed wing, glider, or heli functions. There isn't another radio on the market anywhere near this price that offers so many features, upgrade paths, and expandability.