RE: Which should a beginner like me buy?
What he said! Well put and on the money. There are several good packages on the market now that can get you into r/c flight. If you plan on getting into "regular size" planes, not park flyers, then save some $ while you fly the sim and purchase a good quality 40 or 60 size trainer. If you want to stay with park flyers, then as stated above, check with locals in your area and see what they have/recommend.