^-- I want to sidestep a potential flame-fest here, but I also would like to throw in my opinion...
I can see what BigMig is trying to get across. I started on a Blade CP Pro, and I hated the hobby until I got a TREX. It is very easy to lose focus in this hobby, and it is far easier to give up all hope than keep trying. I think the point is that you really need to evaluate your goal with helicopters. How good do you want to get? Where do you hope to fly? How much noise will your neighborhood tolerate?
Though I don't have the experience that Rafael does, I would have to agree that most of the co-axials and below are toys and not relevant to flying true RC helicopters - but if that isn't what you're going for, it doesn't matter... If you do, however, intend to really get involved, then your best bet is to start relatively large. You'll note I say "relatively". Reason being, I was nearly killed by a set of 800mm blades and a PCM locked-out JR Voyager GS yesterday and it changed my view on recommending large helicopters to new pilots - more on that story in a seperate post.
I also want to offer some encouragement to RCar and others new to the hobby: I live in a town where I am THE helicopter guy. I don't have a club where folks can show me the ropes. I also do not claim to be any prodigy. Regardless, in 6-7 months of flying, I am now able to do flips, rolls, and inverted hovers (I've even dabbled in Tic-Tocs!). I learned on a REX 450SE and the Clearview simulator. I learned by flying alone and practicing on the sim every second I could spare. It is difficult to learn without a club but it is also very possible. The biggest thing is being able to pick yourself up when you crash because you don't have anyone there to keep you in the hobby.
Anywho, for my two cents, I'd take the TREX 600 if you can afford it (it really is a sweet and gentle machine). Otherwise, the next step would be a 450SA. I know Rafael also mentioned the Blade CPP as bottom of the barrel if it's all you can afford, but I would recommend buying a simulator and training while you save on a 450/600 if you only have enough for a BCPP - those buggers will probably kill your interest.
The above is purely my perspective, and I admit to having less expeience than most of the guys around here. The biggest thing is that you find something that works for you. Perhaps if you can let us know more of what you're looking for, we can give better advice?
Regards, all!
- Chaz