Cockney Steve states himself that he's never been in a helicopter. Perhaps he should try it before holding such strong opinions?
For the record, I have flown an R44 into the arctic circle, across the Sahara (twice) and from London to Cape Town - as well as number of other locations far afield. It's a great machine.
I'm not debating the merits or otherwise of rotor blade replacement. Simply saying that it is an extremely capable aircraft (for it's size and price) - and very nearly everyone who knocks them has never actually flown one!
Give it a go, you might be pleasantly surprised.
Safe flights, Sam.