erm i only grow in soil as it is easier. I dont grow with hydroponics although i might give it a try 1 day.
I use envirolites because they r cheep, use less electricity and has less heat 2 worry about, although u can get better lights than these.
As for nutes iuse canna terra that i got from my local head shop, but there are that many out there i dont know whats good or not.
It can b a steap learning curve but u will get there in the end. i made that many mistakes this time round and i still have bud. Hopefully i will do better next time.
Just read lots and u will get there.