RTR's are, by definition, "newbie-mobiles". No way around it, they just are. They always compromise somewhere.
The Duratrax is about as noob as you can get too. And why you think Traxxas is any worse than the rest I cannot figure. Heck, they probably make some of the most race ready RTR's there are. Just look at the Revo. It wins national races all the time in very nearly stock RTR form.
If you're really serious about racing then do it right and get a good kit or at least an ARTR that will let you pick the motor and electronics. The RC10 would be a good place to start. To keep costs down don't worry about brushless right away. Get a good brushed system and learn to drive and control the car before you cram super fast stuff in there. Remember, it's not always the fastest, most expensive car that wins a race, it's usually the most skilled driver.