If you are looking for a higher end radio, the Futaba 3PK, Airtronics M8/11, or JR Z-1 are all great buys. Also, all can be converted to Spektrum OR Synthesised, depending on what you want. I always thought "A radio is a radio", untill I actually had a high end radio. I noticed a BIG improvement going to a JR XS3 from the stock radios, and an even larger improvement going from the JR XS3 to the JR R-1 w/ Spektrum module. Faster response times, better range, more adjustability, etc. The R-1 is discontinued, but the Z-1 is the replacement for it.

If you are just looking for a good radio for the price, the Spektrum DX3 and DX2 are good buys. They use the OLD style JR radio housings, so they don't have as many adjustments,but have the hassle free Spektrum technology.