So I made a post on here a while back, I was thinking about getting an alpha trainer dsm2. I had one last summer, but eventually crashed it. I currently have some parkzone Embers, which are great, and I have a parkzone sukhoi reserved, but I also have a thirst for something bigger, faster, and more powerful, but still easy to fly with my limited experience, and costing less than $300 for budget reasons. Oh, and it would be nice if it had a dsm2 transmitter included that I could use with my reserved parkzone sukhoi to save money.

At first I thought the alpha was my only option, meeting both my $300 budget constraint and having a dsm2 transmitter included. I already have glow engine support equipment, like starter, fuel pump, glow heater, etc.

I thought an electric would be nice for convenience, but couldn't find any as big or fast as the alpha for under $300 RTF, let alone with a dsm2 radio. I looked at the nexstar EP, but its way to expensive. The hobicco electristar was almost cheap enough with NiMH batteries, but is now out of production.

But today I found the E flite Apprentice. With dsm2 transmitter which I can use with my PZ sukhoi, lithium battery and charger, motor and everything for $299 RTF. But I have some questions about how well this will compare to an alpha trainer, or similiar 40 size glow trainer.

Top speed? Capable of takeoff from grass runway? (I think so, I saw this on a video). How well will it handle wind compared to the alpha? Payload? I was planning to possibly mount some small video cameras on it. Any other general thoughts on how this will compare to the Alpha?

Also, any other large, fast planes with dsm2, RTF for less than $300?

Thanks guys!