each has positives and negatives
the 396XT 996XT and GRE PSR-500 PSR-600 are the choices to go with.
Most beginners would prefer the 396XT lineup.. small size (almost half the size of the GRE handheld), great features, 25,000 available channels, easier to learn if you owned other Uniden DMA scanners.
On the other hand the GRE's have great digital decode, true multi-site capabilities (scan strongest or all towers), V folders (for storing other areas), object oriented programming.
If your looking for a great but cheaper scanner then the 396T, or Pro-96 will do (both dont have all the features of the new ones) but will save you cash).