On one particular point I have to whole heartedly agree. The less expensive engines require the user to be more informed and spend more time getting it right than do the more expensive types so yes I do recommend the beginner buy the highest quality engine they can possibly afford to help eliminate any obstacles to their training.
However if you have a sincere passion for the sport and need to save every penny (so you can afford that new plane or whatever) then the less expensive engines have a place. I could buy a brand new OS 46AX for $130.00 or I could buy a new Aviastar .46 engine ,,,and a plane to boot.
I may need to use more of my engine savvy to get it to run properly in comparison to the OS engine but that for me is half the fun.