RE: Good first biplane?
Yup, stay away from the Pitts, it is NOT a good first biplane.
I learned that the hard way when I got my first even though I was very proficient with aerobatic and 3D planes at the time.
A smaller sized plane such as a .15 size or below, is even less suitable.
The Ultimates are nice, but landings will be "different" than what you may be used to.
The Skybolt, Aeromaster and Waco all have better glide capabilities and longer tails making them better suited for a first time foray into biplanes.