RE: Tower Trainer vs Avistar
The Avistar is a little more aerobat capable though, which means all he has to do when he's ready to move up is move the CG back and open up the control throws. It also handles the wind better, which is a big plus for new flyers IMO.
The trainers at my club swear by the Avistar and when asked, won't reccomend any other plane to new flyers.