Jixchel ---when I bought my truck I didn't get some "options" because I thought I'd never use 'em. They were CHEAP options, too. Now I regret it. I may not have used them often, but there were a few times where I was kicking myself for not having them.
I think when asking somebody for a recommendation, that is what they are giving, speaking in their own voice, giving their opinion. Everyone has preferences.
As a newbie, I sure don't want to get "beat up" for not following somebody's advice though, esp. since there are so many helpful people here, the possibility of NOT going with a few suggestions is pretty high, since no newbie can buy or even immediately consider each and every system that is *suggested*. Suggestions are just that........in the long run, it will be up to the newbie to decide for themselves, based on what "appeals" to their own sense of logic and perceived needs. It's pretty overwhelming to begin with.
I personally decided I wanted a small VV only because I'm *curious* about it, and if I didn't get it as an option (and in the case of twists, it's such a cheap option) I would always be "wondering" about it if I didn't buy one.
That's why and how I made that decision. For other newbies, it may be a "teets on the bull" situation, i.e. what the heck do I NEED THAT FOR? LOL
It requires a great deal of GENEROSITY OF SPIRIT for ya'll to get on and help people, and it is greatly appreciated. It takes your time, etc. I used to be on the help boards for prodigy computer forums, and fixed many systems staying up til 3:00 am in the morning to see the person thru their "ordeal" just so as not to lose continuity with them.
BUT, what I don't like, is feeling like being held hostage. This happened to me on a horse racing board when I was trying to learn how to handicap. One guy took me under his wing, but as soon as I didn't do *everything* he told me to do, or decided to try something of my own, or didn't grasp or acknowledge everything he posted to me-----I got dumped---- and dumped on.
That should never happen. He was not really *giving* in the true sense of the word.....he was giving with expectations attached, and was more interested in being right than in helping me.
If somebody is trying to help a newbie, they can't very well suggest "everything". They are just going to suggest what *they* think. And others will come along and post different stuff and/or rebuttals. THEN, it is up to the newbie to decide for themselves.
Conversely, I'm not the kind of person who would make a decision and then hold it against the person who helped me decide on certain choices. I take ultimate responsibility for my own actions.