Listmania!
XBOX 360 "top tier/low cost list"
By an Amazon.com customer
Arcade System Bundle for Xbox 360Arcade System Bundle for Xbox 360
Buy used from: $159.83
Go for the Arcade to start it out, cheapest version you can get.
120GB 5400RPM 8MB Buffer Serial ATA/150, 2.5INCH, 12MS Seek, Retail Kit120GB 5400RPM 8MB Buffer Serial ATA/150, 2.5INCH, 12MS Seek, Retail Kit
Using the PC Magazine article, this will save you ~$100. With the Arcade, make sure you take advantage of Microsoft's $30 for 20gb hdd/3 months live. This is the exact hdd Microsoft uses.
Linksys WRT54G Wireless-G RouterLinksys WRT54G Wireless-G Router
Buy new: $59.99 / Used from: $31.00
If you want wireless but don't want to spend ~$100 for MS wireless adapter. Research this, as there could be better options.
Xbox 360 Live 12 Month Gold Card plus 1 Month BonusXbox 360 Live 12 Month Gold Card plus 1 Month Bonus
At $30, it's a great deal. Anything more, it's average. Also remember, XBOX Live is PER Gamertag not console. If you have multiple people using the console and you want to keep the profiles seperate and allow all online play...you'll need multiple accounts.