I would 2nd that. I have a NexSTAR and I've got about 20 solos. Hey MinnFlyer, I still haven't received my "Atta Boy". I just solo'd last Wednesday. Anyway, not to take up your thread. The NexSTAR will give you the most bang for your buck. Join the AMA, check out a local club, buy your NexSTAR, charge your plane and transmitter batteries while you assemble the plane, then play the hell outta the included simulator that has your exact plane on it.

The NexSTAR has very good features for beginners and the instructions are very easy for a beginner to follow. This is my 1st plane. The AFS (Active Flight Stabilization) is only good on overcast days, but other than that it's #1 in my book.

My 2cents.