Line 6 amps are worth a look as well - loads of 'bang for your buck'. Anything over about 15w will make your neighbours very unhappy.... but even that cranked could get you in trouble. No need for anything bigger until you play out. Not sure if a pedal is better than an amp with everything built in... try before you buy as said above.

I agree with light except for the picks... I use the same type for everything - when I have changed it takes me a while to get used to it. If you're playing rock and metal, a 1mm pick should be a good start point.

Each to his own though.... I use 3mm dunlops....