True, the BladeCP is NOT a training helicopter. I wouldnt recommend it to any newbie. Its a bit much for a new pilot to handle. This being said....you could learn on a Blade, but you'll probably be going through a fair amount of parts.

I havent flown the new BladeCX, but I do have a Hirobo XRB which is very simular, and it is definatly the heli for a beginner. Its like a helicopter with and extra "training" rotor on the top. REALLY stable, and is easy to fly. The BladeCX should fly just like it. Im gonna order one. Its just a really cool little heli...should make a nice addition to the collection.

Im picking up my MX400 today.Whooooohooooo

As far as antenna whips, I just bought one of those RC car antenna holder thingys and coiled the antenna around it. Works great, no glitches yet, and range is well out of visual.

I cant wait for the bell/hiller upgrades. It needs it for the inverted stuff. Hopefully they will come out with some kind of brushless upgrade package too.