Forgive me for being slow to reply.

Start with clones, as this is the easiest way to ensure females, and this gives you some practice.

Start with soil. learn how nature does it, then apply that knowledge to hydroponics. Get yourself a decent starter light, a 250w MH lamp can be had for a decent price.

For your first run, work with light nutrients so you don't run much of a risk of over-fert. Also obtain a pH testing and correction kit for your water.

If you have any questions, feel free to hit me up on any of my IM names, or catch me on gmail, techkitsune.