The foam instant gratification crowd is why the "hobby" is where its at now. Anyone can put a brushless motor on some foamboard or injected "replica" and it will fly. They do not fly the same. I can understand trying to save money or not have a big initial investment. A dx6 or dx7s is a great start just depends on if you want programming options. People don't stick around because there isn't a sense of anything other than swiping the card for another wing or fuselage. I'm not saying spend lots of money. Get the sim you already talked about. It is not just a tool for beginners. The new solid state gyro planes and as3x from horizon are great but what are you actually learning if it flys itself?