Drifter, welcome to da hobby. First let me say that there are sooooooooo many choices for beginners nowadays as oppose to when I started(16 yrs ago) pertaining to ARF's and RTF's. Most ARF's ___ you add your own equip... RTF's ___ usually everythang's provided minus fuel, flytebox, glowplugs and ignitor etc.. Now w/ that said the SOLO looks like the better choice but you provide radio,glue,li'l building,etc...Now w/ that said RTF's are generally less "expensive" due to the "package deal" concept and most of the components are closely matched for skill level and performance.W/ that said , the Arrow has a semi-symetrical as oppose to flat bottom as most Trainers. Some peeps can learn on a S/S wing___ some can't.The Flat-bottom has mo' float to it and therefore a slower flytespeed.I used to suggest to peeps to get the Hobbico Avistar .40 from Tower Hobbies 'cause it's cuts thru da wind here in Texas better. But I found out the S/S wing on it was too fast for them, hence lenghthenin' thier learnin' curve especially if they were totally green to any kind of aviation/flyin' thangs.Hanger Nine also sells the Alpha .40 RTF and ARF... RTF__ everythang's inc. ; ARF__ you buy separately all major items.Also World Models sells ARF's cheap__ no RTF's.. Look up SkyRaider Mach 1. Most peeps like O.S. engines for beginners, but like you I'm on a budget and have to dispense my hobby dollars wisely. So I own and like Super Tigre,GMS,and Magnum engines. I own O.S. but they are not in my price range anymo'. As for as radios, I started w/ Hitec, then Futaba__ generally get what your instructor has so you're compatable.As for as all the other items, most clubmembers will be more than willin' to help you get started and answer any questions. Also I generally don't advise gettin' used stuff from peeps 'cause don't know where it's been or condition.Keep askin' questions and you're only limited by your abilities,imagination, and your wallet size. Thanx,Rob.[sm=thumbs_up.gif]