My first pack years ago was the original Alaskan Frame Pack. I used it for week-long trips and to pack out quarters. I've seen the new model and there have been some nice upgrades such as the webbing straps that hold the pack to the frame. It used to have these awful pins that would go through the frame and the pack and they would squeek with every step, it was awful. It was not the most comfortable pack in the world, but in the end I never had any actual problems with it. For a first pack I would not hesitate at all to use the alaskan 2.
And even now I don't think I would care all that much if the only pack I had was the alaskan 2. I've never used it so I cannot say for sure, but in the end of the day the most important part of packing out is your level of fitness.
It is true that some packs will fit you better than others but cost is a big factor and the price of the alaskan 2 is really nice compared to the really fancy ones. If you are just starting out you are going to have to get quite a bunch of other gear and money will be tight.
If you want to upgrade in the future then you'll have a good back-up to keep in the truck or for a buddy to use.