You mean like the TREX 450XL/SE or something? (found here: [link=http://www.helihobby.com/html/trex_helicopter.html]http://www.helihobby.com/html/trex_helicopter.html[/link] )

If I have to go up to the $500 range to get a better flier, I'm not about to argue. I don't want something "cheap" per say. I'm just a little confused yet on what the big differences are in these. I know some have upgraded motors, frames, blades and such. Most of these places I see have a lot of "package deals" and quite frankly, it's a bit confusing for someone starting off. I mean, it ranges from about $120 to somewhere in the range of $700. I'm guessing I want to avoid "minis" or "micros" if I want something that will behave a little better? And I'm also going to need a radio (which should be capable of flying any future birds I purchase?) In all, I guess it's cool since you can just buy the frame and upgrade it if you find something isn't working out the way you want.

Are there any component manufacturers that have a high standing? What's this Hiller/eCCPM difference I keep seeing? (Sorry, I haven't looked into it too much.) Any reason to go with "Brushless"? On the above link, does the "T-Rex 450XL CDE Spectrum Package" look like a good starting platform? With it including the radio, should I be cautious about the quality of some of the components? If I opt for the kit... how long is this thing going to take to build up? :P Honestly, I have no qualms about building it myself. I think it would be a good way to learn why things do what they do.

Thanks for the suggestions so far by the way.