got to say, while I never tried the gel stuff, Scott's beads rule
. I second what most have said. Dump the pine, if the proper tray are not avalable to you they are faily cheap at a few sites, Until you get some wood/and or cigars the RH may stay a bit high.
Many prefer 70%, but if you have burn issues try 65%. I find they burn more evenly and taste a bit better.
BTW, welcome to our happy little home.