slimjym: are you saying that if I wish to change my starter irons to my newly purchased irons 9 (or vice versa) that I have to do this as a complete set if irons.
That is correct - for example you can't swap out individual irons - any iron set equipped will be 3-PW, regardless if they are starters or branded. I would love the freedom to say drop my 3 iron and use a 2 iron (something I do in real golf - or drop my 3W for the 2i) depending on the course.
However you can play with starters irons and use purchased woods, drivers or other wedges, or elect to use all starters equipment.
It is fun and challenging to use starters equipment, especially from the tips and they are always there. Likewise with any purchased clubs, they are available unless you sell them.
As pointed out in the above post, three wedges is usually more beneficial to having a hybrid in your bag and is the preference for most players.
Edit: As an aside, you effectively have 27 clubs in your bag.........all except the putter can be used for punching the ball - really important to learn the value of this shot.