hey, not sure if you are still checking out this forum, but def go with Associated. Ease of use, you know, what everyone else said. I would say get the kit, and get all your electronics. It will cost more, but save you from doing the old double negative, of paying for rtr crapola. Then having a bit of cash and getting some other greater then ready to run quality electronics, to find out there crap as well and end up having to by another set of high quality electronics. Trust me, been there dun that
If your not too keen on putting the car/truck together see if someone at the hobby shop will do it for you. I know for a few bucks some of the guys at my hobby shop will put anything with wheels together for you.
Good Luck
tim