I'm a newbie and my goal is to fly 3D. I have a Slo-V park flyer and I have pretty much mastered it. I have a lot of experience with Flight Simulators (not RC simulators) so I fully understand flight dynamics. So call me a "Newbie-Plus".

Anyway, I want to get a 3D plane as soon as possible. I am mainly looking for climbing performance. Hovering is not my primary interest but I want a plane that is capable of that when I'm ready. I am mainly looking for acrobatic performance.

Also, I want to minimize my total investment to reach my goal so I want to get a good plane now rather than step up gradually through 3 or 4 planes.

What I want is a plane that can be tuned down to go slow enough to practice with and then later get a bit faster. I plan to use the programmability of the radios, CG changes, servo pivot point changes, and even lower power batteries in order to limit performance for now but then change those factors later. So what I'd like to know is what you all think is the most tunable plane? In other words, what plane has a performance band running from relatively slow up to medium speed and can be made capable of most of the 3D tricks? I'm not looking to make this my final plane but I want this to be the one with which I learn a lot. So here are the factors to consider:

- Slow through medium speed capability.
- 3D capable with nothing more expensive than an engine change.
- Electric (of course)
- Easily repairable - I much prefer foam and would especially like EPP foam (I think).
- Comes with or upgradable to brushless motors.
- Price is not that important but under $150 for the plane itself if possible.

What would you recommend? Or am I totally nuts for wanting to do it this way?