For most planes 5 channels is the most you will use. I have a Futab 6x w/o 2.4 and I like it more than my Spektrum DX7 for feel and comfort. But man the DX7 is an awsume radio that you can (after schooling) do some pretty neat stuff with. I have it filled though and can't add a plane without taking one off. I also have the 6AX just about filled. If there were no problems with crystal type radios I would not have gotten the 7 but better safe with 2.4 than sorry. The DX6 is a fine radio, also. And if looks mean anything it looks cooler to me. So DX6, Futaba, whatever you decide they all are making pretty descent radios. Airtronics is good also.