I've built 2 of the E3D's. Easy to build. Flys great. I'm a total beginner with batteries and electrics in general. I'm actually a very beginner airplane pilot also. I only soloed with my Senior Telemaster a few times before flying the E3D. I had no problems flying the E3D right from the start. I do have several years of experience flying helicopters so I'm not a total newbie to RC. I'm just a newbie to airplanes.
My first E3D only lasted one week. It was cut in half by a giant Extra 300 pulling into a vertical take off. I don't know who did it. The canopy survived and I'm using it on the new one. Kinda like paying tribute to a fallen friend.
My second E3D is going strong after several weeks of flying. I can't get mine to hover. I'm sure it's something I'm doing wrong with either the batteries or motor.
Scott