Interestingly enough, now there is a related thread about the DA-42. I was just wondering... From what I understand (correct me if I'm wrong), Cessna no longer offers steam gauges. Can you still buy a new airplane with steam gauges?

IMO, its better to train without glass and truly learn the basics. The reason, it's easier to move up to glass than to go from glass down to round dials. The RJs are 2nd generation EFIS and you will transition to them easy. However, the 737-300/400/500, MD80, 757, 767, DC-8, 727, 747-200/300, DC-10, etc. are either first generation EFIS or no glass cockpit at all. If you don't know how to fly with the old technology you will have a hard time transitioning to that equipment when you leave the RJ. DAL, UAL, NWA, AA, CO, LCC, FDX, UPS, et al fly the old technology airplanes and will for quite some time.

The military starts guys out on 40 year old airplanes with no modern technology. Why? They learn the basics. That never goes out of style.

A very good point...espcially if you go to NWA and get the DC-9. Boy that cockpit looks a mess! Don't forget to tune and identify!:D

I have to disagree. There are plenty of airlines (even ones that are highly desirable for job seekers: UPS, FedEx, SWA etc.) that still use steam and will use it for some time to come. Some, i.e. World, are even adding steam airplanes to their fleet. Also remember that some airplanes that are designated as glass is really first generation EFIS. From a workload perspective compared to today's glass, those might as well be steam.

Another vote for learning with steam. Being given a holding entry under pressure with glass, easy. With steam, not nearly as easy. Glass spoon feeds and provides you with your situational awareness. Steam makes you work for it.