I agree with you on the overwhelming info out there. Heres my tip: filter it all. Basic stuff is good like types and cuts of tobacco, but as far as everything else, I just do what works for me. I think a lot of people get caught up in the whole "hating aromatics" and "expensive pipes" thing. To each his own, but remember, it's YOUR hobby, for YOUR own enjoyment. TRY EVERY TOBACCO YOU CAN!
Reply to the pypehype: Truer words of wisdom are rarely spoken :) I agree with you about the whole "hating aromatics". It seems like there are a lot of "arm chair elitists" on the forums that act like you aren't an experienced pipe smoker until you "graduate" to English blends. I'm sure there are some great English tobaccos out there, but there are also a lot of good aromatics.