I think an STB is the best for first timers that want to make sure they get everything. But rather than go the no-man route I would acquire d-limonene and fumaric acid and then use jorkests approach. It's a little more complicated than just throwing some naphtha in the freezer but you get a nice full alkaloid extract.

I'm in the group of folk that don't think an A/B is necassary. I have acheived very clean results using just water, lye and lighter fluid.

Just don't throw ANYTHING away until results have been acheived and don't rush. Best results require patience.