Personally I would recommend just getting your mask, snorkel, boots and fins to start if possible. I love my Sherwook split fins and my Excel boots. Everyone has items that they love and ones that they hate and there is going to be a lot of disagreement on which is best etc. I think certain brands/models are best for some people and others for other people. The hard thing is to find what works best for YOU and what you are most comfortable using and wearing. If you can, rent your gear for classes. Try different regulators that you are considering buying if you can. Try different BC's again if you can. That is sometimes much easier said than done. When I was first shopping for my own gear I was dealing with 3 different LDS's who all gave me different and conflicting info and all suggested different gear, I did not know what to do! I researched it all on line and got what I figured was the best from what was available to me. Since then I found a differnt LDS who really works with me and really cares that I have gear that suits me, fits me and that I am happy with. Made a huge difference. So, now I am replacing almost all my gear that I originally bought! Much easier & cheaper to do it right the first time if you can 
Of course as you become more experienced you may decide you prefer a differnt piece of equipment from what you originally purchsed but hopefully you won't be looking to replace all your gear!
Of course as you become more experienced you may decide you prefer a differnt piece of equipment from what you originally purchsed but hopefully you won't be looking to replace all your gear!
