I started with the Edwin DE89, and don't regret it. I also started with an Escali Pure Badger Brush for about $12 on Amazon. It was a great first brush and I just gave it to my brother to get started. In the same category as Proraso is Taylor of Bond Street creams. I recommend them as first creams because of the wide sweet spot for lathering. They truly are hard to screw up and they have about 10 wonderful scents to choose from. They are also economical because the $15 pot will last a long time. Garry can hook you up with samples here on B&B.