RE: Buying first trainer: looking for opinion
You could do something like get an Alpha or Avistar or Superstar ARF without the other items so you get to choose what you add. Pricing should be close to what you get as a full package I'm thinking.
Plane: $100
Engine: TT 46: $85, OS AX46: $110
Radio: Futaba 4YF, $130 JR Quatro, $150
If you buy your things seperate you will find some other options to depending on what you get and where you buy them. Tap that Uncle for stuff. Maybe he'll let you borrow a trainer you know..