The general sense is that if you're starting out, start out with a Tippman 98 Custom or Spyder Imagine. Just about everyone in these forums are going to tell you this. They are great beginner guns and won't run you too much into ground as far as money goes. xpaintball.com has the
Spyder Imagine as well as the
Tippman 98 Custom.
To solve/prevent your chop problem, I'd suggest an Empire Reloader with SAB (sound activated board) or better yet, a ViewLoader eVLution II.
I'm assuming you're going CO2 so I'd suggest getting your tank anti-syphoned. Also it wouldn't hurt to get a regulator or barrel. Which one you get is totally up to you.
Well I hope I helped. Good luck in your search.