Though it is a bit more than what you were looking to spend, I would recommend the e- flite Apprentice.

With rates set appropriately it is a really docile flyer, it is tough, parts are available and reasonably priced, and it has good power. Once you have a handle on the basics, it does inverted flight and basic aerobatics better than most high wing planes. It will haul a micro rc skydiver up to jump, and it responds to floats very well.

I got the rtf when I started, not knowing if I'd really ger in to flying. Knowing what I know now, if I were to do it again I'd get the plug and play, a Specktrum computer radio, and Gens Ace 3300 batteries and their 4 bank charger to begin with.

Nothing wrong with the Dx5, for what it is, but it has no model memory or adjustable expo/rates.