topal - just my
DON'T buy a top of the line board if you are just starting out. You are better off getting the advice of the guy in the shop - try to go to a shop with multiple brands in stock - and listening to what he says. If you go anywhere reputable they won't just kit you out in the most expensive gear to get your cash, they should set you up with the best stuff to get you started. It will prolly still run you at LEAST $700 but you'll be happier in the long run. Besides that, top of the range boards are designed for the boarder who knows what they are doing and tend to be stiffer and harder to learn the basics on than a more mid range board.
This aside - DO spend your money on kickass boots and bindings. There is no point saving $60-$100 on your boots because regardless of your level, the better your boots fit you, the better ride you get. There are some boots that are stiffer or softer depending on what sort of use they'll get (pipe/park vs. piste/offpiste) but if you invest in high quality all around boots you'll be happier and in less pain.