ORIGINAL: rlsloan
If you are an experienced pilot, the 450S is economically the best machine for you. $229 at hobbypeople.net. Includes ESC and motor.
You'll find people on both sides of that argument. While it's true that the 450S is economical in the short run, it's prone to more extensive damage in a crash than the 450SE, closing the price gap in pretty short order. Even an experienced pilot can crash, especially if he/she is pushing his/her abilities.