Opinions are a good thing But first off welcome to the forum. I think the info bikerbc has posted is dead on, and you are approaching the hobby/sport in the best way.

Regardless of the type trainer you choose far too many leave the most important person to the success of your introduction to this wonderful hobby and that person is your Mentor, Instructor and future flying buddy out of the decisions to be made. This is usually a mistake and often your mentor can save you considerable money as well as frustrations.

Some of the early decisions that normally must be made is of course what type of aircraft, be it Airplanes, Gliders, Helicopters or even Quad Copters This can make a difference in who becomes your mentor. For example I spent considerable time this morning with a gentleman who is a returning flyer from many years past but it soon became apparent that his goal is Quad Copters so I referred him to a local expert and responsible quad operator in our club.

There are many other decision to be made as well and agine the best place for that will with your face to face mentor.

John