Down thrust is only needed if the plane has a very high thrust line or very high lift airfoil. Planes with semi or fully symetric airfoils and with the thrust line within a prop arc of the wing's line will fly just fine with zero up/down thrust.
I don't use an incidence meter, just a carpenter's square off of a flat table. My Robart meter froze up years ago and I've never needed to replace it.
The most fundamental starting point for you would be to ensure that the CG is at 25% of MAC. The next would be to make sure that the elevator and aileron throws are within reason [compared to what other similar planes in that class are using]. Most beginners seem to have poor control resolution from incorrect throw geometry and then try to trim it out electronically. The best way to set up a smooth flying [but still responsive] plane is with the mechanical advantage of choosing a pivot point on the servo arm close to the output shaft [1 or 2 holes out] and then place the control rod clevis well up on the control horn [like 3/4" to 1"]. The kit manufacturer usually will be a great deal of help here with this part of the set up. The greater your target speed, the less throw you will want or need.
Finally, with the plane snadbagged into place snuggly on a work table, your hands will be free to check the plane's geometry. The reward is obvious, good luck.