Damian,
Started all my research a little over a year ago and got my first bees in January, so I'm almost a full year in. I can appreciate and remember being overwhelmed by all the same decisions.
I decided to go with all 8 frame medium equipment. All mediums keeps it simple, one frame size allows moving around frames between boxes without any issues, as well as keeping the weight manageable. The 8 frames instead of 10 also helps with the weight and is believed by many to be a little more natural width for the bees and don't require quite as much encouragement to fill out the end frames.
I decided to build my boxes, bottom boards, inner covers and top covers. I built a few telescoping covers and quickly figured out it was a lot more practical to just build migratory covers.
Purchased my frames unassembled and decided to go with wax foundation. I wouldn't recommend attempting going foundationless as a newbie, you'll have your hands full and plenty to learn and keep up with you first year without having to worry about having to try and straighten up wacky comb.
Whichever route you go, realize Beekeeping is addictive and you'll probably actually need much more woodenware than you probably currently think you will.....I know I did.
I purchased a couple of Nucs from someone in my region to get started, finding medium Nucs were a little of a challenge in my area, not sure what the options are in your area.
You'll also need a hive tool and smoker, as well as protective gear....I'd say a veil at a minimum. I usually go without gloves, but most newbies don't...If you do, you just have to accept that 2 or 3 stings is SOP.
When it's time to pull honey, you'll need a way to move the bees...fume board, bee brush, blower, etc.
I use a fume board with bee quick and use a brush to remove the stragglers. As well as a way to harvest the honey......But you still have plenty time to worry about and research all those options. :-D
My best advice would be do your research and pick an answer and direction that you think will work best for you and your situation. Understand there's no one "right" choice for any of these decision, and no matter which direction you go, there will be those that think you're making a mistake...as well as those that think you're doing it "right".
Good luck!