I agree...the 500 would be better than a 450...and a 550 I think would be even better still.

Only thing I dont agree with is saying the 500 is a "tad bigger than a 450". The way I see it...its almost TWICE as big. And the 550 is close to being twice as big as the 500 without costing that much more.

I really think that the 550 is probably the best all around heli. I say "think" because I am still building mine and havent flown one yet. My opinion might change after I fly it. But as far as costs go...the 550 hasnt cost that much more to build thus far than the 500.