Driver and woods for beginner

I'm a fairly new golfer and just purchased a set of Callaway X-hot irons not too long ago. I'm now in the market for a driver and 3 wood. I've been looking and testing some Taylormade RBZ, but also looking into the Ping G25. Any recommendations on good beginner clubs that will still be good when i progress my game more. And is there any big difference between the RBZ and RBZ stage 2?

The X Hot irons were a great purchase. I love mine. I would suggest you go get fit to determine the proper loft and shaft flex that you need in a driver. Those two components are important in the results that you will get out of the club.

As far as the club goes, it's all up to personal preference. For example, I loved the RBZ but not the RBZ2 driver. Loved the RBZ2 3 wood and not the RBZ. Don't ask why. I personally do not like the added weight of adjustable drivers, so I stay away from the TM R1, R11, Callaway RAZR Fit, etc.

Also, believe in what you want. Right now, TM new campaign is to "loft up". Well, I call BS. I have a 9.5* that I was fit to and I love it. It really is that simple. Find what works for you. This takes time, and unfortunately, money.

Go hit some balls at your local golf shop on a monitor system.

Why dole out the big bucks for new gear?  Look around thrift shops, second hand sports shops, even driving ranges may have older clubs for sale.  For a hundred bucks you could buy 5 drivers to test out.  Yeah, older and bring you little envy from your mates but will permit you to test different head sizes, shafts. grips, shaft lengths, etc.  A newbie, like you, IMO does not benefit from top o the line new gear.

If you are still reading this forum in 2015 and have played 15 complete rounds in 2014, then, and only then, treat yourself to your chosen golf gift at any cost.

I just purchased a brand new Ping G15 10.5* driver for $125 including shipping.  I was playing the Ping 5 until it developed a crack in the face, but the G15 is even more forgiving and goes a mile.  Check eBay and other sites for bargains on some great 460cc drivers and other woods.

Others might disagree, but how about just skipping the driver as a beginner?

Get a fairway wood. Consider a 4W or 5W.  As you improve (and get a driver), you'll still find use for the fairway wood.  The higher loft can help you as you start.

That's pretty much what I have been doing. I've been using a hybrid and 5W off the tee and its to a point now where I need more distance off the tee than those clubs are giving me for the long par 4's and the par 5's where a driver can help me make up a stoke on getting to the green.

Fair enough. Then I'm done with my public service announcement.

Like my Callaway driver, btw.

Think adjustability (so changes can be made as your swing progresses).