LearningMan,

I think I may have the answer to your questions.

1. Yes, there are the equivalents of "trainer ARF's". But there are none "Ultimate Combos". Most ARF trainers are delta wings, and they look just like a Mig-29 that has had the tail blown out by a AIM-9X. These "ARFs" are simple to build, but turbine installation is an anal process you won't be able to avoid.
2. www.yellowaircraft.com, www.bvmjets.com, www.tamjets.com, www.planesplus.com, www.compositesarf.com ->these are the most popular websites for entry level jets.
3. Money talks and BS walks. If youre not a builder, but a flyer, just pay somenone $2-3K and you will get a finished jet. It is that easy.
4. If you have the money, go straight to turbines. You will get there anyways. IF you are budget restricted, find a good used DF and fly the hell out of it. Some DF's fly at 200+mph, just as fast as a typical jet.

Hope this answers your original questions. It can get political around here sometimes.

Good luck. David