very interesting to hear the different experiences professional metalworkers report with cheap units. I think there are probably some units that are very good value, particularly the newer inverters. the technology has advanced considerably, so comparing older (particularly transformer) units to the new is apples and oranges.
they are still cheap and crappy, but much more capable. as to reliability, the low price has to have some downside.
im a Miller/Hobart guy myself, but for the OP, I'm inclined to say get the HF recommended above (and im surprised im saying that!). don't buy from unknown internet sellers, at least you can take it back if you go brick and mortar. for someone learning, and not concerned with Lbs/hr laid down, its hard to beat the value.
the inverter units are the way to go, they use less electricity, and are so much lighter and more compact.
its easy for an old pro to say " my 3000 lb name brand 50 year old unit is the only way to go", but for a beginner (95% of them at least), that's just not good advise.
take a look at Jody's site "welding tips and tricks" if you don't already watch him, and practice, practice, practice.
I mostly TIG myself, and think its a good place to start if you really want to learn welding. it is harder, and the setup costs more though. an upside is less fire risk by the way, since you only have the arc and no spatter (unless you'r really screwing up!).
stick is less outlay to get going, its reliable and strong, and a halfway decent inverter should run 7018s fine, unlike low-end transformer units. (don't by a buzz box or tombstone! the arc sucks on them).
a little tip, when stick welding, make sure your gloves are loose enough so you can "flip" them off when you get spatter in them, because you will.