Nothing worse than being a type A perfectionist and finding something you can't master instantly!
You've got some good advice and I try not to repeat things already covered.
It is all about you.. what works for you. IMHO you just need some bottom time without a bunch of fuss. That is already covered here. I'll put my hand up for the group saying FUNDIES now may not be the best for you. Only you know for sure but I would say that if you are a perfectionist and drive yourself it might just frustrate the heck out of you. I know experienced divers that have humbling experiences with the class. I'm not sure you should set yourself up for a tough course you may not pass all the elements in. That may create more frustration for you.
I'd personally put the $ into gear you are comfortable with. Knowing your gear and being comfortable with it helps. That said renting gear is the best way to figure out what is the best gear for you before you buy.
As for having an off dive. Bad news.. we all have em... no matter how many dives you have up you can wind up having a dive that just doesn't go right. New equipment, going from freshwater to salt or vice versa, different dive site, just pane not in the right frame of mind can all contribute to a less than enjoyable dive.
You may find reading this thread helps.

It is all about you.. what works for you. IMHO you just need some bottom time without a bunch of fuss. That is already covered here. I'll put my hand up for the group saying FUNDIES now may not be the best for you. Only you know for sure but I would say that if you are a perfectionist and drive yourself it might just frustrate the heck out of you. I know experienced divers that have humbling experiences with the class. I'm not sure you should set yourself up for a tough course you may not pass all the elements in. That may create more frustration for you.
I'd personally put the $ into gear you are comfortable with. Knowing your gear and being comfortable with it helps. That said renting gear is the best way to figure out what is the best gear for you before you buy.
As for having an off dive. Bad news.. we all have em... no matter how many dives you have up you can wind up having a dive that just doesn't go right. New equipment, going from freshwater to salt or vice versa, different dive site, just pane not in the right frame of mind can all contribute to a less than enjoyable dive.
You may find reading this thread helps.