The launch pad that is included in the Micromaxx Launch Set is a slightly modified version of Quest's standard launch pad, and is a really handy, lightweight set-up to bring when all you are planning to launch is Micromaxx. It is far more stable and adjustable than the very clever but not always steady Silo launcher that was originally designed for them. The pad is modified to use the current Q2 Micromaxx igniters, and there is no good way to use the original plug-style QMX igniters with it. I believe that the kit contains the new igniters.
The controller that is included is Quest's standard pistol-grip 9 volt model. If you don't already have one, this is a great addition to your launch equipment. Not only do you get a controller that will fire your Micromaxx motors, but in the bargain you also get a controller that will safely fire Quest's celebrated Q2G2 igniters for larger motors. You won't need to go to the trouble of rewiring another brand of launch controller so that you can have something to use with them, because you'll already have one.
When I want to just go out on the spur of the moment and launch some Micromaxx, I want to be able to have a lightweight, simple and no-fuss launch set-up ready to go. The equipment provided in the Starter Set is perfect for that.
The set of RTF rockets that are furnished with it are all flyable. Some, especially the Space Shuttle Orbiter and the UFO, are rather draggy and don't go very high, but they still turn in stable flights. Just don't expect thrilling performance from them. Indeed, all of the LPBs (Little Plastic Bricks) are perfect for backyard launching, just as advertised. You certainly won't win any 1/8A competition events with them (except for maybe spot landing), but they are OK for sport launching, and you never have to worry about having any of them fly out of sight! (I think that much of the bad rap that these models got had to do with the fact that they were released with the original, lower impulse Micromaxx I motors. They do better on the Micromaxx II motors that have been out since 2001. They are still no champs, but they don't seem to be quite so pathetic in the IIs.) Although I have many kit-type Micromaxx models, I still regularly take out my LPBs and fly them, too. My only regret with them is that I don't have a full set. Another nice thing about the plastic RTF rockets is that they are quite sturdy. I get good streamer deployments almost every time with them, too. I guess that it just takes a little bit of practice.
The Starter Set also includes a pile of motors. That's always a good thing.