Gentlemen...

When are you going to see that arguing this point is like arguing religion?

What you are arguing are your opinions. And in each man's mind, HIS opinion is ALWAYS correct.

Let's look at the facts:

Spads are cheap, and durable - Balsa is more aesthetically pleasing, and once you get into high performance planes, balsa will be more aerodynamic.

So there are several ways to go...

First Plane:

You can start with a SPAD trainer, and not have to worry about breaking it (or "falling in love" with it).
Or, you can start with a Balsa trainer, and learn valuable building skills that you will use later, on more advanced planes.

Second plane:

You could build a SPAD while you are learning to do basic aerobatics and getting lots of solo stick time without fear of damaging your "baby"
Or you can fly your "baby" and risk destroying it. (Note: THIS is where I recommend having a durable plane, not the beginner stage... BUT this is only MY opinion)

Third plane:

At this point, I like to see someone flying Balsa planes, (Kit or ARF) for one simple reason... There is a certain type of personality out there, You know the type, it's the kid who says, "You fly RC Planes? That's cool! I'd like to take one and fly it into my school!" or, "It would be cool to blow one up in mid-air!" We have all met that kid right?

Well, That kid worries me. Fortunately, he, and others like him are discouraged from doing such things because they don't want to ruin all of their hard work. Once they reach adulthood, they (Hopefully ) have more respect for the property of others.

But they are still irresponsible. (Note: I am not referring to Combat Fliers, who, follow the rules, use the proper precautions, and use good judgment when flying)

I have no gripe about someone who flys SPADs because they don't have a lot of money to spend on their hobby.

I have no gripe about someone who flys SPADs because they actually LIKE them.

My concern is the guy (And I have SEEN them) who fly SPADs because they just don't care about learning to be a good flier (or a good ANYTHING for that matter). They just want instant gratification without the responsibilities that come with it (No Club, No AMA, etc).

This is why I recommend using SPADs as a learning tool IF NEEDED, or as a way of keeping the sport within your budget. (or even just having the occaisional SPAD just for fun)

But this sport is DANGEROUS, and while you can argue that you don't have to "Worry" about crashing a SPAD, I think BALSA helps to emphasize that you ALWAYS HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT CRASHING AN AIRPLANE!!!