Hi Gary
I feel for with the CFS/ME - it's tough to keep things going.
With regard to you original question, there are a million conflicitng opinions with all areas of modelling. Some go for all singing, all dancing computerised radio systems, some for simpler units, some go expensive some go cheap. All have their merits.
The computerised ones are good for multiple models and for 'fixing' shortcomings in design, installation or bodging features like correcting servo directions, speed and travel.
I prefer the cheapest possible sets because I work strictly one boat, one transmitter so I can let others drive my boats while I drive another.
It means my boats have to be engineered & built properly because there is no clever helping hand to fudge the errors.
The signal range of cheaper sets can be less than more expensive ones but seriously, it's not a 400mph jet model 1.5 miles away - it's just a boat bobbing on the water in front of me.
I've got sets from Tamco and Hobbyking - the Hobbyking ones can feel a bit cheap but at £20 for 4 channels and the fact they work 100% reliably, who cares. Except the gear-snobs on the lake.
A word of warning - Hobbyking ship from all over the world - make sure you select the 'UK warehouse' or you can be stuffed for international import duties.