RE: After mastering a
it sounds like you are intersted in aerobatics or 3D. If so, I'd stay away from the mass produced stuff from Horizon or Great Planes. They market 3D models like a TWIST and UCD which is a great model for 99% of the folks that fly them, but it's not a truly 3D aerobat. If you want serious 3D in nitro, I'd check out an an OMP or Swanny profile. If thinking electric, I'd highly recommend an Extreme Flight, Precision Aerobatics, or 3dhobbyshop bird. Their models are similar in price to horizon/great planes models, but are specifically designed for 3D.
You might also check out some foamies if learning 3D. Doinking one of these hurts you (and the wallet) much less than a balsa model. Hyperion, DW Foamies, 3DEPP, and a plethora of other manufactures all have options that are 3D monsters.