I have seen a lot of posts in what someone should buy. I wanted to give a history on what I bought and why if it helps others figure out where to go.

1. I bought 4 core sets ( they where on clearance at target so it cost me 2 normal core sets)

2. I bought 1 of each exp (I want to see the paint job on each ship, abilities, upgrade cards, pilots, and dials. I cannot stress enough that one of each exp is the way to go!!!!!!)

3. I bought 2 extra B-wings and Intercepters (I saw b-wings are cheesy as all get out and tough as nails and interceptors really applied to me)

4. I bought 2 more of each exp ( I really like having 3 of each type of ship because most lists can run 3 of one type and are not bad. Also with the epic fights and 150 esc it is good to have this many) I did not get three falcons slaves or Hwks. I personally do not see the need for more then 1 Hwk. And at some point I will pick up a third slave and falcon.

5. I bought 2 copies of imp aces ( I really like the alt pilots and Royal guard is stupid good)

6. I bought 2 transports (felch torps are amazing with splicer tools)

7. I have wave 4 ships on preorder, also 2 rebel aces and 1 CR ( 6 z95, 3 of everything else, at first I thought the z95s would be a good swarm ship, but I see the there are much better with ion pulse missiles, the other ships can be run as complete 100 point lists for 3 of each type)

First - 2 core sets are a must if for nothingness else but the dice. If you play with a friend a lot or like me, my wife, 3 sets is better. ( also if you plan on playing one side sell the other sides ships, the resale valve on ebay is something like 70-90% per ship, it will pay for exp easy)

Second- for a new player I thought having one of each ship is important to know what they can do and what the ships dials are. It is the first thing I would exp to after the core sets

Third- Imp aces are a great buy and rebel aces are also but don't forget you want at least 1 exp of the ships seeing they provide different upgrades and pilots. If I did not have the basic Tie Intercepter I would have missed out on some good pilots.

Last incase you think I am rich I sold a Warhammer 40k army I had been collecting because I find this game much more satisfying, I work some extra hours and sold some older video games. I have 0 regrets in doing so.

Edit*

PS find a good system for transporting your ships. They are surprising good to throw in a tackle box without breaking or paint chipping. Plano 7771 is a good pick. I had a bunch of inserts for a tackle box at my house so I place my rebels in one and my imp in the other inside a 2 different laptop bags