Pick for first plane
 

Hi Sam,

Any of the ARF flat bottom wing trainers will be great. Go ahead and get the plane with the radio. This will save you some money up front and it will give you some time to decide if this is the hobby for you. I continue to use my trainer radio in other planes that require a 4 channel radio. If you continue to enjoy this hobby you will certainly want a better radio with more bells and whistles, but having a trainer radio on a different channel is handy. There are lots of fun planes that only require 4 channels/4 servos.

Be sure to get involved with your local flying club and get some lessons. Most instructors will do this for free. It will save the cost of the plane for sure, plus the safety factor of having somebody to ensure your plane is assembled correct and trimmed.

I personally don't subscribe to any of the mags, but when you join AMA you will get their mag and it is very informative.

Have fun,
Mitch