I'm the one who recently picked up an electronic kit. I play both E and A, and there's a lot to be said for the "silence" of Es. I can play at midnight and not bother anyone else in my house. The quality of an E depends on the quality of the brain, which is what makes the actual sound. The drums themselves are just triggers.
SO you need a good brain. I have an Alesis DM5 brain, and it's adequate. I'm probably adding a second brain, and it will be a Roland TD-8.
I also prefer mesh pads to rubber pads. They feel more like an acousting head.
Now, for your own kit, I'd look for a starter A set. A simple five piece with a couple of cymbals, and see how that goes for you. Starter kits are cheap (around $300-400 US here), and it's a great way to find out how much you're going to care. You can always upgrade it later if you want, for better cymbals, more cymbals, or whatever else floats it for you.
I wouldn't suggest trying to buy your ultimate dream kit right now, largely because it's too early to tell. To put it in perspective, Neal Peart from Rush has close to 20 different snare drums, each of which has different sounds for him. Me, I can handle one [img]smile.gif[/img] I don't have the same level of distinction.
For apartment life, though, Es are the way to go [img]smile.gif[/img]
*edit* One more thing... check out
www.edrumming.com for ideas on the differences between Es and As. They each have their advantages.
[ 05-16-2005, 07:21 AM: Message edited by: Bungleau ]