I'd definitely recommend getting a 2.4GHz radio... the 72MHz radios won't be around much longer. I've used a Futaba 9C for the past three years, and I just recently got a Spektrum DX7.

Right now, the Spektrum DX7 is the nicest 2.4GHz radio in the $300 range (IMO). Comparing it to Futaba radios, I'd put it between the 7C and the 9C. The DX7 has graphs for your dual rate and expo, like the 9C does. The 6EX is pretty low end as computer radios go. The 6EX is already out in 2.4GHz, and I believe the 7C is expected shortly, but neither have a graphical display.