I have purchased and flown the Top Gun F-15 (byro fan) and I have to say that the best cheapest and better flying plane for a beginner is the Byroblaster enforcer. It's not as good looking as the F-15 but will fly circles around it in any flight envelope. It's easier to land due to it's very light wing loading and faster if you want to push the envelope. If you are used to building balsa planes the enforcer is a breeze to build since it's a balsa jet. It's a balsa USA enforcer that has been modified to put a Ducted fan POD on it's back. Their are many sites out their that show you how to do it and you can even order the plans for the conversion.

The plane choice depends on what you are looking. If it's a fun everyday flyer that will get you going into ducted fan cheap or do you want the good looks with it at a more expensive price.

My 2 cents.