All I do is race and my M11 is overkill for me But it's a nice radio. For messing around, I would see if you can find an M8. Still overkill, but you should be able to find them for super cheap; even with the Spektrum module.

The newest MX-3 FG is a pretty nice radio. I'm assuming that the range or something was an issue as they upped the transmitting power or something on the newer ones.

Another radio to maybe consider is the Spektrum DX3S. It runs around $250 at most and comes with two receivers and has just about all the bells and whistles. However, I've noticed that quality seems to be an issue with at least the 3S (haven't had problems with my 3R yet). Theres at least one service bulletin out concerning the selector wheel and I've heard of other things breaking as well. Even guys I race with have had problems with their 3Rs, like the trigger spring breaking, the selector wheel breaking or just flat out DOA.