Byrne1157 has gone the EXACT same route as I have. Learn on a 3 channel and work your way up slowly with sim time and practical flying. I see nothing wrong with that. If you read my other posts in other forums, I wholeheartedly support those who want to join a club and the AMA. I plan on joining the AMA next week. But I personally don't want to join a club. I am doing just fine by myself and with my more experienced buddies. And yes, in the few months I have been flying with them, they have taught me loads.