A Habu 32 (fiberglass fuse, balsa wings) is a good alternative, but will cost approximately $1200 with the right setup and batteries. It is capable of good speed, but will cost much less than your top end edf units. Personally, I would opt to spend my money on a suitable turbine-powered model and get buddy box time with an experienced turbine flyer. With the RC experience this guy has, transitioning to turbine-powered models will not be that difficult.