I would quit sending noobs to arachnoboards. That's like sending someone looking for their first VFT/CP to the proboards. Except archno people are a lot more stuck up than the CP guys are. Go to
http://www.tarantulas.us/forums/index.php to get your questions answered. That's a nice friendly setting there..
I'd have to agree with Exo, A. versicolor is a good beginners T. As is G.rosea.. That is the most common first T for people. Swords is dead on with the Avic avics. Nice and cheap for adult Ts.
However, I advise against Dethcheez's suggestions of A. Seemani, B. Albopilosum, B. Smithi, and L. Parahybana. Those are more for your 4th or 5th T's. The brachys are hair flickers.. and that's no fun until you know what your doing. The parahybana is extremely aggressive and flicky. NOT, a beginner T by any means. Cheap yes.. but not an ideal first T.
I've got tons of pics and info on my website. If you have any more questions, feel free to ask.
pS.. Eco-Earth is what I use for all of my inverts! That's perfect..