[umpbrian]

Texas Aggie
Good equipment has no equal. If you don't feel protected behind the plate you won't have a good game. If you have to cut back a little, try to find used equipment or skimp at first and only buy one shirt instead to two or three. Doing extra laundry is less of a headache than getting injured. Bottom line is good equipment is worth the money. If you don't have a supplier in your area, check with some the other guys that are calling and try on their gear to see what you like. In the end, find equipment that you feel comfortable in and that affords you the best protection.
Brian