James,
I believe that Simon is trying to figure out the best started gun at a low price, which does all the bells and whisles that you need it to do.
However in the current economic climate, I believe hes looking for a cheap gun, that shoots millenium, and needs as few upgrades as possible.
As you have already said, you have spend £400-500 on your Ion, for that price you could get an ego08 or dm8 or older generation guns of the same line. I have owned the Ion, the DM8 and the Ego08 and the Ion loses on the basis that you have to plough so much additional money into it to get it the way you want it.
I no doubt your gun feels good, but for someone starting out, unless if your loaded you'd want to get something at a very good price without having to upgrade the gun within the first couple of months starting out.
I have read elsewhere that Simon's team has had drawbacks in people leaving due to money and other commitments, I believe hes doing is trying to lead the new group of players hes no got towards the right kit and gun at a good price.