A first radio? Things have come a long way since I first posted this.
Standard radios, ones with limited or no programming, no model memories, are now found almost exclusively in RTF packages.

A simple 6-8 channel 2.4 GHz computer radio (model memories, surface mixing, basic telemetry) is all most pilots will ever need.

If you plan to fly in competition, then you will want the more sophisticated radios with lots of programming features. But beware, if you are totally new to this hobby, having all of those mixing options can create quite a bit of confusion.

I still recommend that people seek out clubs. One of the benefits is that you can see what everyone else is using and, unless there is a reason to go another way, get what they have. Then you have help setting up your planes and your radio.

I am a club officer. We have a new member. He has a very sophisticated radio that none of us has ever seen. I think it is 18 channels, multiple protocols, and has a set-up system we have never seen. It seems to have a world of programming capability, and we are having problems helping him. It is frustrating him, and it is frustrating us.

The sad part is that he is trying to set up simple 3 and 4-channel gliders, but he wants to get into the weeds pretty fast with all of the programming options. He has them so he wants to use them.

For your first radio, keep it simple. There will always be an opportunity to upgrade later, and there will always be new things coming out that you will want. Save that fancy ratio for your next purchase. The original radio can be sold or act as a backup, trainer, or loaner radio.

great to have you back aeajr!