There is still a lot I don't understand about Transmitters and Receivers, but it looks like a computer radio is the way to go.

COMPUTER RADIOS - Much Better Choice

In short, computer radios give you things like model memories, exponential,
a variety of surface mixes and more; features not found on standard radios.
Your computer radio can store the profile for many planes and reset itself
for each plane by just selecting the model. Standard radios don't have
model
memories or a lot of the other features that computer radios offer. With a
computer radio, you only need one radio to fly a bunch of planes, rather
than dedicating a radio to each plane, or resetting the radio each time you
change planes. Computer radios are great! In the end, they are cheaper.
more convenient AND can make it easier for a new flyer to learn to fly.

These are all 6 channel radios so they will let you fly more advanced planes
then either of the radios above.

Spektrum DX6 - $199
http://www.horizonhobby.com/Shop/ByCategory/Product/Default.aspx?ProdID=SPM2460
Review
http://www.rcuniverse.com/magazine/article_display.cfm?article_id=623
If your plans are to fly small to medium sized electrics, often called
parkflyers, hand launched gliders with wing spans under 60 inches, this
might be your best choice. The DX6 is suitable for flying within 2000 feet
out. That is about 5-7 football fields away. This is more then enough for
these plane and further than most people will fly them.

More information on transmitters:

http://bergent.net/SC-DC.pdf

http://www.amainhobbies.com/product_info.php/products_id/9473 - DX6 transmitter for $199.00

October 31, 2007