I'm just trying to share my experience with you.
The one thing you can count on in beekeeping is,,, everyone has an opinion on how to do _____ the right way.

With that said..

The plastic frames ARE coated with wax thats why they smell, no need to double check with the vendor.
Rub EXTRA wax on those plastic foundations, the bees will accept them better. They don't seem to like plastic foundations in general. Plastic foundations DO have their place, I'm not discouraging their use.

Bees are picky. My guess is that they won't like wires in the way. I don't have direct experience with them drawing comb over wires but I have read that they don't like them.

You will see wires in wax foundations but they are usually sheets of wax. The starter strips with wires is new to me and if it works it would be very helpful.

And EVERYTHING works 10% of the time but you gotta get to 80% it be useful.

Just tucking your pants into your socks works too. Tightwad beekeepers don't waste tape. ;-)

I look forward to your future posts.