I've just purchased the Nexstar. I am going to train using the Sim for a good while (getting used to taxiing, taking off, flying the landing pattern, getting real comfortable with landings in all kinds of winds.) I intend to be very familiar with the Nexstar befor actually commiting the real aircraft. I will be seeking instruction from a good club and advise you to at least get with one for a few sessions at least. One thing I've learned here at RCU is that learing with an instructor is ALMOST imperative if you expect to have ANY success as an RC pilot. AS for the Nexstar, I 've researched and read just about anything I can get my hands on. The leading edge droops and the speed brakes work tremendously when it comes to keeping the plane flying at low speeds, such as landing approaches. From what I can gather the RC world is pretty much split on the AFS (Active Flight Stabilization System). Some swear by it, others decry it as a sure crash. IMHO, I belive it is of great value to begin with, because just simply letting go of the controls will allow the system to right the plane back to straight and level, provided you have adequate altitude, and from what I've read the AFS doesn't require a lot of it to get corrected. If you're like me, with this sort of investment, crashing is NOT an option and I'll take all the help (whether it be human or otherwise) I can get. One other thought on AFS. You can test it out on the Sim. It is available as an option in the software. One other hint Iv'e gleaned from my research is, if you use the AFS, don't set the sensitiveity above about 35. The AFS is pretty robust and will try to keep the plane S&L at all times if you set it too high. Pay attention to the weather conditions, as well. Read your instructions as they pertain to AFS. They will be far more clear and succinct about proper conditions than I could ever be. Good luck! And if I as a mere Noob myself, may be so bold as to say, Welcome!