I just started flying my nexstar and I had the G4 to learn on before heading out. It is still a handfull for a new flyer. I'm self taught about 2 months ago and I'm now looking at a second plane (sig 4 star 40) , my opinion would be too learn on a trainer first, if money is an issue then try to find a used trainer or plan on selling your trainer when your done with it. I'm very glad I started with something like a nexstar and didn't go for something like the P 51. I've never crashed or really come close but if you did crash your P 51 that you put lots of time and money into it could effect how long you stay in the hobby. Also something to think about is learning to trim and go over a plane to make sure it is ready for flight. More to flying then just the two sticks on the TX. I bought the ARF with the 2.4 7C and still have fun with the trainer. I'm keeping mine to train the kids and friends and to have something to fly should something happen to my second plane. Good luck.

PS The nexstar trainer has speed brakes and air foil extensions and after 10 flights I took them off because I was good enough to fly with out them. Well my trainer was so much faster it scared me enough to put the training aids back on for another 10 flights. Now with about 4 gallons thru the nexstar I feel I'm ready for a bigger challenge. I had no problem teaching myself to fly and the sim helped for sure but there is no practice for your first flight with your heart in your throat. LOL