I would have to disagree with DB Cherry, at least as far as MDS goes. I have one, although it is not a .48 which is the size you are looking at, and it runs great.

As far as the engine size. I would stay away from an LA. It will fly your trainer, but you will soon lose interest in it when you advance past a trainer. And if you do(as I do)fly your trainer later on when you want to float and relax, you won't want an LA in that plane. You will want something with more power.

I have only been flying for two years and my .40LA will probably never be used again, by ME at least.

As for manufacturers. I would suggest, in this order: Thunder Tiger, Super Tiger, OS, MDS. The only one I would say NOT to get would be a Magnum. Magnum 2 strokes are bad in my opinion. The 4 strokes are OK. I am training someone with an Evolution and it has done well so far. These are just what I have witness and are not gospel. Take it for what it's worth. Hope you find a good one.