Of the three you've listed, I vote Aurora 9.

I like the AFHSS protocol better than DSSS. The receivers will be very affordable, the full range Optima 6 costs only $49.99. The programming as seen in the walk through videos is as flexible as my Multiplex Evos but seem more intuitive and I dig the touch screen. Telemetry like receiver pack voltage is shown on the transmitter's screen....now that's awesome!

You can get them at a discount, I joined the TowerHobbies Super Saver club for $9.99. They e-mailed me some discount coupons. I pre-ordered the radio online at $429 and applied a $60 off coupon; $369 for this radio with a 7ch tx and Mike from Hitec said they are including a coupon for a 2nd RX for free. The shipping that would normally be $9.99 is now free for club members; that offsets the price of the club AND I paid no sales tax.

Well, that's my two cents anyway....your milage may vary

Dave