Zeke,
You are likely to get lots of advice on your question. There is a contingent of people on this forum who seem to advocate playing with clubs that make the game harder that it has to be (see the threads re: playing cavity backs, comments regarding wanting to "feel it" when they mishit the ball, etc). Personally, I play golf witht he intent to improve and shoot lower scores - and for me that means taking advantage of whatever legal means of game inprovement are available. Having established that, here is my advice:
(1) Go to a golf store or golf shop and hit several different types of clubs,including some regular flex shafts and stiff flex shafts. The folks at the shop can help you establish which flex osm for you - however, there is no reason to think that a stiff shaft is not appropriate for a beginner.
(2) I think you should expect to play with some form of game improvement clubs for a while. Ive been playing golf for 15 years, and have played 8 different sets of irons (yes, I change a lot). After using "players" clubs for the last 3 years, I recently switched back to clubs with some game improvement characteristics. Since doing that, I have played better than I ever have - breaking 80 twice in the last month (which is a big deal for me, as I am a 9.7 handicap).
(3) Dont be afraid of, or reluctant to use hybrids. I watched practically every pro at teh WGC event this weekend use some form of hybrid - so you know that there is something there worth taking advantage of.
(4) Finally, play whatever clubs allow you to enjoy the game most - and if you define enjoyment as scoring lower, then use the clubs that allow you to do that.
If you are looking to purchase a set to "try out", I highly recommend a used set on ebay. That allows you to try some clubs at a lower price - and if they do not work for you, you can easily resell them for close to what you paid for them.
Good luck,
SS