After reading the posts over, I think the list below sums up what items were mentioned more then once...
Shearwater Computer
Spring Straps
Freedom Contour Plate
Halcyon Eclipse BP/W
Deep6 Fins
Scuba Pro Jet Fins
Apollo Bio Tank Lock
Poseidon Regulators
Scuba Pro Regulators
Dry Suits
The most mentioned items (after a causal read through) were Shearwater Computers, Spring Straps, and Halcyon Eclipse BP/W. I think the Freedom Contour Plate was also mentioned 3 or 4 times...
Some basic opinions like the list above would have possibly encouraged me to not make some beginner "mistakes" when buying gear...
My first computer was a Zoop (the Zoop is an ok computer, but my Perdix is near PERFECT). My first fins were Scuba Pro Jet Sport Fins (non spring strap fins)... after using them for a few years I discovered how nice spring straps are, when I bought Hollis F1's... In retrospect I wish I had forgone both initial purchases, and put that $$ towards the gear I have now (the Perdix, and my Hollis fins or better yet, my Deep6 fins).
Currently I'm looking to assemble my first BP/W setup. I'm excited to get a Freedom Contour Plate as the base of my setup. I don't think that purchase will be a mistake, many experienced divers, who's opinions I trust, have led me to this item.
***Lastly, I may treat myself to a Bio Tank Lock too, especially if I can find a used one... if not I'm sure two tank straps on my BP/W will be more then sufficient.***