[ddruck]

Well I just did 10 batteries on the MSR and yes it is fun and I scream around the living room with it but I have a soft spot for mini helis but I have been flying for 2 years. As the next step after MCX it is a stretch. Yes you can learn on it but you need some space indoors and it will be difficult. Take off from the ground is as crappy as any fixed pitch, it is actually easier to hand launch. Trex 450 is perfect for learning but pricey, 50 size helis require help, clubs , ground equipment and too much commitment to the hobby at the learning point. Actually after more then 2 years of sport flying I have 0 interest in ever acquiring a 50 size nitro heli. So it is a personal choice. Having said that size and quality do make a difference in learning fast.
In micro size, Hirobo Quark is absolutely the best I have ever tried but very pricey, The innovator is definitely equally stable but a technical nightmare.
I learned to hover and fly circles on cx2 and Hone Bee FP in a 10 x12 basement in one winter at a total cost of about $200 in broke parts, mostly blades in a tight basement and may hours on flight sim.
What ever your choice, lots of stick time is most important.
Dan