The million dollar question.
I totally agree with the suggestion to go with the DSE901 as a beginning e-smoker. It's a tried and true model with few hiccups. Plus, it's pretty darned easy to figure out. You may decide to branch out from there and try different models, but even if you do, you'll be very glad to have the DSE901 as a backup.
As for the vendors, there are many good ones, and many good deals. Many offer very limited warranties (like 2 weeks). Others offer longer warranties (generally at a higher cost, but not always--ecigmall has a much longer warranty, and its starter kit is comparably priced to those with a shorter warranty--haven't dealt with them but have heard good things).
The two that I've dealt with are PureSmoker and JantyUSA, both of whom I've been pleased with. Janty is more expensive, but provides a very nice warranty. On the other hand, I've been waiting on Janty for awhile for replacement parts. I'll get them eventually--not at all worried about that--but it's still a pain to wait. PureSmoker has a much shorter warranty, but their prices are quite reasonable and the customer service is excellent.
Good luck and welcome to e-smoking.
