I started with an rtr that had interference issues with the am radio. I started reading and at the time FM was considered best for range and lack of interference. I got lucky on ebay and bought a like new futaba 3PK that was won as a door prize at the Cactus State a few months earlier that year. He sold a bunch of stuff with it and after I got rid of everything I didn't want, I had a like new 3PK for $165 and some of my time.

I run 8 or 9 rcs off of it and have rxs in every rc so its just a matter of deciding which to take out to run - no rx switching etc. Later I scored a Futaba 3PJS that I use to run my 18th scales. Some of those are novak xxl rxs, but some also use same Futaba rx as my bigger scales. I have the flexibility to run ppm, pcm or hrs modes with both radios. I run mostly pcm and a few rcs on ppm, hrs requires digitial servos. Then 2.4Ghz started. I looked at what it would cost to switch both radios tx modules only and all 16 rxs - not going to happen, I'll spend the money on other rc stuff.

I've never had a prob with any of my setups and they have great range. I can drive them far enough away I have trouble seeing them. Don't really have an opinion on whats best, don't have experience outside what I own and some rtr am setups. I'm active on several forums and there seems to be probs with all of them, nothings perfect. Far as antenna tubes go - I'm not real fond of them either, but I use only Yokomo nylon tubes and make sure they're set up right from the start.