I like the XS3. I'm not really the one you should be asking though. I've been playing, off and on, with RC for the past 12 years, but this is my first upper end radio.

If I were to buy a starter box, I'd probably get the OFNA # 10250 or 10253.

I've ran less than a gallon of nitro in my life. The first 1/2 was Blue Thunder 20% (I forget which flavor) through my Losi GTX w/ OS .12CV MAX. The rest has been Trinity Monster Horsepower 20% through my new PBS. I'm still tuning the engine, so I still haven't gone crazy with it. I don't think you can really go wrong with any of the major fuel names out there. However, I have heard the Blue Thunder is a bit tougher on the engine than others.

Roy