RE: Is Expo and Mixing essential for basic 3D
For true 3D you'll need extreme throws, especially on elevator and rudder. Most set up around 30+ degrees of elevator (and ailerons) and 40 degrees of rudder.
With those throws and no expo, landings would be especially difficult. It may be possible to tame the throws substantially with low rates, but I don't know your transmitter's capabilities.
WHat IS possible, is to set your throws for more normal flight parameters and fly the plane as you would a sport flyer. Say 10 degrees of elevator and ailerons, 20 for rudder.
It's the massive control throws that "make" a 3D plane, combined with the size of the control surfaces of course. So, you should be able to tame the plane enough to fly it with your existing equipment.
Good luck,
Dennis-