If I could give my very humble opinion, as I have only been flying for about 11 months or so, but the route I took was to buy a simple 2-channel and get used to flying it and learning the orientation of the plane in the air. If you put in some simulator time, and are a quick learner, then I don't think that many could recommend a better first "trainer" plane than the Hobby Zone Super Cub:

http://www.hobbyzone.com/rc_planes_h..._super_cub.htm

It really is a great first plane and is forgiving. I've learned a lot from flying that plane and hope to move up soon

Good luck, if I can help you get started I will.

God Bless,
Daniel.