The soft start is what makes a difference from no to minimum throttle, basicly what it does is get the motor spining slowly(like 1-3 turns) before adding any decent power, I geuss to explain it is that if you took something and immeadietly put power to it(causes stress, may break a gear if there are any) where as with the soft start, it will gradually spin up(which will reduce stress all around, like on the o-ring holding the prop on)which is why I use it, no mind you in this application its only gradual until it spins a couple times, then you have all normal throttle response, it's only a split second it does it, so it wont effect your throttle up noticably, and it benefits the reliability or the o-rings, so id say use it unless you dont like it(which you dont notice it while flying so why not). As for the timing, It is set for the type of motor you use(hard for outrunners)basicly just bringing the most outta what you've got. That should get you started, Any flying yet? I really enjoyed my flatana, great plane to learn 3-D stuff on, At least thats what I learned on. Then you can move up to something like a reflection, Radix, or Tensor with the same equipment. Yes, I do prefer bi-planes now as you can see, which if you havent flown one they are different, but i think its in a good way. anyway good luck, and if you need anything else just let me know.