First things first. Welcome to the forum Derek. You will find tons of information here, no matter what rig you pick up. If you like to tend fire, maybe something in the charcoal area would suite you. MES's, if I am correct, are for the Electric people who want to set it & forget it. Propane people exist here as well & I am sure there will be a few chiming in with their recommendations. No matter which rig you get, consider this: How much can you afford? That is the real question. Once you figure out your budget and your likes & dislikes, you will be half way to deciding what will work for you. I smoke with a Weber Smokey Mountain 22.5 smoker & I swear by it. I get to tend to the fire, drink, relax, socialize & make good smoked meats. Others will swear by their rigs as well. So, break out the bank book & add up some numbers. You will probably find that what you can get will be what is best for you for the time being. Remember; there is nothing wrong with having more than one smoker. I have two. My other is a Char Griller. Good luck & enjoy your stay here sir.