Anthony,

I think you will love the EZ*. You are doing the right thing with your research and questions. I started with a Firebird Commander back in November and, although I learned a lot with it, wish I had done my research and started with something a little more interesting to fly. I got a Slow Stick in December and still love it. I got the EZ* so I could fly when there is some wind. It is very different from the SS in that it has much less climbing power and flies faster. I have managed some loops although they are large and have to be done with some altitude from a slight dive. One thing to be very careful with - make sure you have the CG correct. I spent a lot time reading the megathreads on the other site and set my CG to the consensus position about 5mm forward of the factory recommendation. The EZ* didn't fly well at all with that balance. I had to give it significant up elevator to climb and the nose dropped in turns. It even flew much faster than I expected (or liked). I finally set the CG to the factory location and it was a kinder, gentler plane with all the sweet characteristics mentioned on the posts. Even though it isn't terribly aerobatic, you will enjoy the challenge of flying it like a sailplane. Climb to altitude, cut the throttle, and cruise around looking for thermals. I find this very relaxing and it has a zen-like quality of communing with nature. Mild aerobatics with Slow Sticks and Aerobirds is fun but you have to rely on the power of the motor rather than natural thermal power. You will love it. If you haven't discovered it yet, FMS is a free flight simulator and Multiplex has an EZ* model for FMS on their website. It is great practice especially for those loops. I have links to these in my virtual hangar at http://www.knology.net/~suggs/planes..._RC_hanger.htm

Enjoy

Rob