James,
I have seen a number of the ARF/ARC Ringmasters and they are crimped with a much improved crimp compared to what they used before. Crimped ends have served me well for a number of years on older airplanes before I started wrapping the ends. If Ben's airplane comes out for weight like mine (26ozs) the pull test is fairly light and has not presented any issues. Personally I would leave them alone and do a good job assembling and fly the airplane. A couple items that might be of some help is a longer horn and Monokote style hinges/pinned hinges. I used the stock horn and have to counter the fast controls with fairly narrow spacing at my handle. Build it, fly it and enjoy.
John