I understand where you guys are coming from. I fly primarily three channel electric sailplanes.
The A9 is way more than I need and its my first 2.4 rig.
Ive never owned a radio above a 7C......so the A9 is a big jump.
Even if I bought a Futaba 6ex 2.4ghz......for far less, I would still have to lay out 100 dollars per receiver.
When you add it all up the A9 is still the best deal. And appears to be a solid system.