I love my futaba's even though I like to try a Spectrum just to see if I like it. Right now I have a Futaba 6EX 2.4,and although I like it......I wish the 7 channel Futaba (7C) was out when I bought my current 6EX. I would buy the 7C in a heartbeat simply because you can program in model names with it instead of having to memorize all them....plus the display looks cooler.

But I'm not sure how many channels to recommend for helis though,but if 7 is enough,and your current futaba is a computer radio (the 4exa)......then go with the futaba 7C because it will be much more familiar to you. I wouldnt get a 6 channel though,get the 7.

I just checked some picture of a Spectrum DX7 and it looks to me like the Spec has 2 reciever boxes(which may not bother you) to hook up instead of futabas 1. And the Spectrum has Manual sliding trims on it instead of futabas electronic button type(which I'm not in love with yet).

Maybe that info will help you make your decision....either way,there's both GREAT radios and you wont go wrong either way I'm sure.