Yep, you need to do some leg work before you spend money. I totally agree that the only way to get started out on the correct path is to visit the man at the pro shop. I would add that most shops only carry brand a,b and c and others will carry brand b, d and f. The bow makers have sales zones and you wont be seeing everything there is at only one shop. You also won't be seeing the lesser marketed bows like those seen in cabelas or eders catalogs. When you leave the shop you need to have an idea of what poundage you can handle and your draw lengh. Adding fancy nock loops or strings will add up to 1/2" to your bows draw length so keep that in mind when setting things up. Most of the newer bows will allow for some draw lengh adjustment and when you drop the cash make sure the shop takes the time to set the bow up before you leave. And after your bow is shot a 100 times or so the string will become set and then you will fine tune the bow. Dont get bent if the way the bow shoots changes a bit when in the brake in period.

I bought a Bowtech two years ago and it is a fine piece of technology just as mathews and several others are. My brace height is 6 5/8" and that makes for a fast and flat shooting bow but it takes a bit more focus to consistantly shoot it well. I'll stay in the 7"+ range next time I get a new bow.

Practice your practicing...