Originally posted by Cole Trickle
Well, I still think you should do the grip test on some of the suggested radios. Maybe it'll makes the decision very easy. Maybe your favorite will be counted out in a second 
As far as I understand, you are on a kind of budget - just like me 
If you believe you'll be in the hobby for a long time, I would say get the XS-3. FM, 3 channel and mixing (if you want to go nitro someday), all the good adjustments, crystal less (saves money in the long run + convinient). It also got the choise of faster frame rate, meaning cutting down on the reaction time. All in all, a very good radio at an fair price.
Next choise would be the MX-3. It aint got mixing and it's crystal based. No fast response system. But yet good adjustement, FM and 3 channel. In addition, an display which offers very good overview and ease of use.
My third choise would be the 2PL.
In case you havent seen it, here's a good link for the XS-3
Once you decide on a radio, consider trading the standard servos for a better one.
actually i do run a nitro (Mugen) and an electric (YOK) and i believe i would stay in the hobby for a while- thanks for the reply