Dude, I'm middle of the pack, there are Allstars on this site. I learned mostly here and youtube. I really like kyle kushman and Bill ward on youtube. Very knowledgeable videos. It took me about 10 years, but I cut corners and was cheap. I always grew with the cheap CFL lights and shitty LEDs. I never used hps lights due to my situation with space, heat etc.
But since quantum led boards came out...WOW! Everyone will swear by what they love. HLG, spider farmer and mars offer great value lights, especially for beginners. Get a discount code if your going to purchase one.