Hi Shannon,
I will add my 2 cents worth... I own a Futaba 8FG, 2 Spektrum DX8s and 2 JR11Xs.
I like them all and fly with them all equally.
8FGPros - Excellent smooth Ball Bearing Gimbals. Mature firmware (IE No bugs) Lightweight, excellent battery life, very simple programming for helis, and some advanced features that simplify this over the other two radios. Excellent real world range
Cons - expensive receivers, not compatible with any of the Parkzone or E-Flite BNF aircraft or Helicopters (and I have many of these)
DX8 Pros -Super Ergonomics, the best overall feel in my opinion. Super silky Ball Bearing Gimbal. Now with DSMX which from Bruce's review is good stuff. Works great with any BNF aircraft or heli from E-Flite or Parkzone, excellent real world range, same as Futaba 8FG
Cons - one of mine had the Gimbal recall, still a few bugs in the firmware.
JR11XPros - It looks like a Cylon (the only reason I bought it) but seriously, unique looks, DSMX as per the DX8 so also compatible with BNF Aircraft and Helis, Nice bearing gimbals, but not as silky smooth as the DX8 or 8FG. Outstanding radio range in real world distance testing, about 20% more than the Futaba and DX8. Firmware appears mature.. No known bugs that I am aware of.
Cons - Expensive, very heavy,
Here are a couple of vids..
1. Gimbal issue in the DX8
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wvFMQ8pOPrk2. Firmware bugs in DX8
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bm5uZHXZS2o3. DX8 and 8FG side by side
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OBGEDBL5JXQ4. JR11X, DX8 and 8FG side by side
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6IEIpitzMdk