I realize this is an old thread, but another curious novice might come along and read it at a later date.
First of all, and opinion upon the opinions itself. I have had a large number of hobbies throughout my life. The responses here sound like what what seen in Motorcycle/Car-Racing/Machining/Welding/Engraving forums. A large percentage of the people here want a "tool" which provides repeatable results with the minimum of fuss. This is a very common mind-set. To a novice, their opinions will sound like "cost is no object".
However, newbies often don't have the budget for the "ideal" machine which will render such results. The original poster put down a dollar limit which was largely unworkable for a GREAT cup of expresso. To some degree, skill can allow for the use of lesser equipment, but newbies rarely walk in the door with that level of skill. That lack of knowledge/skill often results in poor results with less-expensive equipment, leaving the new Brewer dissapointed with the idea of brewing at home.
Like all tools/equipment, there is a Sweet-Spot on price. Above this price point offers diminishing returns, which only a hard-core brewer will be able to detect. Below this price point, even a novice will notice the results improve with only a hundred or two additional cost.
Many of the products mentioned above are "pro-sumer" products, as versus typical "consumer" products. Probably one of the notable exceptions was the Breville Barista Express, which is smack-dab in the Consumer range. This is not a slam on the Breville, it can produce a solid cup (with some fiddling with how the machine is tuned/adjusted). For many, it would be a good Starting Point (if they don't have deep pockets, they can be found used for around $300 at the time of this posting).
Depending upon where you live, it can be hard to find a decent coffee shop. None of the coffee shops in my area can produce a "god shot" (the ideal perfect shot of espresso). This can make it hard to understand what a novice should be striving for. The local shops have no idea what "ristretto or lungo" are. Should you say such things to them, you will get a blank stare. Knowing what you are striving for (taste, texture and aroma-wise) is important. Having a good reference is important.
For future readers, good luck on your Journey. It is an adventure. Enjoy it as such.