There are as many opinions as there are divers - some are really pasionate about a particular brand, others, not so much.
As a gross generalization, the major brands are all very servicable - however, some are better than others FOR A PARTICULAR TASK.
If most of your diving is going to be warm water, resort type diving, at depths not much below 80'ft, you can get away with much more basic eq - OTOH, if you are doing ice diving (unlikely based upon your profile), or deep diving, a more high performance, "sealed" regulator is the way to go.
The best advice I can give a new diver is to try - via renting - different brands of equipment, and to talk with divers about thir gear - what did they like, why did they make that choice, what did they own before, etc.
Again, my opinion - and some will disagree and say its better to have your own gear to learn on/with - take your time, rent a bunch of times, ask a lot of questions (divers are very willing to talk abouth their equipment) and do research, both on this board and others on eq you are interested in.
It also greatly reduces the cost of diving as you will not have 1 - 2k invested in equipment - especially since at this time you don't know if diving is for you.
I dive more than most, but use the least expensive Atomic regulator - because they are all very similar in that particular product line, and I saw little need to spend $1500 on their top of the line titanium reg. Other brands there is more of a difference.
While you should be aware of what things cost, all you need to get started is a mask, fins, snorkle, dive boots, and perhaps weights - all other eq is normally provided by your instructor.
Today, there are many resources vs your local dive shop to purchase eq - but don't do it - even though its tempting right after you get certified - until you have tried different manufacturers, and done a lot of research.
Good Luck!