RE: What other types of SCTs are worth looking at?
Do you intend to race at a local club? Are you trying to find a used truck or are you looking at new ones too? I know you were looking at the 4x4 Slash but, do you prefer 2wd or 4wd?
If you're only considering used, then it kinda depends on what's available. Check the local CL ads, the ads here on RCU and Ebay. You might find something there. Put a want ad on CL or RCU and see if you get some legitimate offers.
As far as the trucks go there are many great brands but some are more popular choices than others depending on what drive type you are looking for. I prefer Associated and their SC10 is available in both 2wd and 4wd. New, they start at $299 RTR and go up from there. My brother and his wife race HPI Blitz's which are 2wd. There are many similarities to my SC10 and both of their trucks drive extremely well.
You can get the Losi XXX-SCT 2wd (although with brushed motor)RTRfor $200. You may be able to find a better deal online somewhere if you do some searching.