Scott,
Do a some research on this section of the board - there are some useful threads that will get you started regarding BC features to look for and recommended models.
Your choice will depend on multiple factors:
- What kind of diving you do. Cold water diving with lots of weight require BCs with greater lift capacities. Warmer water = less weight = lower profile/lower lift BC
- Do you expect to travel with your gear? If so, you may want to look for a lower profile BC that can be packed easier
- Weight integration vs. non-weight integrated -- this is something you need to decide based on discussions with others and trying it yourself
- Back inflate vs. jacket style -- again, look here and elsewhere for data on how these 2 BC styles work and how they affect your diving
- Tech vs. Rec -- if you ever plan to get into tech diving, you may want to choose an appropriate BC
- Traditional BC vs. backplate/wings -- either of these choices may be appropriate...you need to decide which one works better for you.
So -- bottom line -- think about the diving you plan to do, do a little research, talk to experienced divers you know, ask your instructor (although if affiliated with a shop, answers might be biased towards shop offerings), etc., etc. All of these things will help you make a decision. I would also urge you, if at all possible, to try different BCs before buying......the only way you will know if it works for you is to get it in the water.
Good luck.