RE: E flite Apprentice vs Hangar 9 Alpha...
I recently bought a 6i. When I told the LHS that I wanted one, he tried to get one right away, but it was delayed in shipping for a few weeks. When I got it, the unit was outside the recall date stamps (newer) and the mod was installed.
I believe that if you do order the 6i radio, you will most likely get the updated version. Not a guarantee, but if you insist that your LHS order a new one rather than take one from stock.. or if you order it directly from Horizon, you will get new system with the updates installed.
I've been following this thread. An awful lot of great information has passed from person to person. It has been a learing experience for the original poster as it has been for anyone reading it. A lot of experience has helped out. I hope that you take advantage of everything posted here and find out how exciting and rewarding this hobby can be. Rewarding because with each flight, you gain experience that you will eventually share with others in your situation.
Best of luck!
CGr.