As for which guitar to buy, for a new player, bang for the buck, I'd go with Yamaha (was actually my first guitar). As with any instrument, play a load of them to find the "one" - you'll find one that just fits, plays as you like it etc. It's definitely worth taking time to find it.
Amp wise, take yer pick, personally for acoustic amp's I like Marshall's - suggest at least 50w or more (practice amp wise) or bigger if your budget allows. Fender make some real nice solid state amps as well (my personal preference for electric).
Washburn make some real nice acoustic's - but they tend to cost more, again, it's down to your personal preference and budget.
Welcome to a new journey,
Wurz