Question: I am pretty new to scrapbooking/card making. I am looking for an embosser / die cut machine. Which do you recommend?
Answer: If you are just looking for a good regular die cut machine (not a computer-based one), I would suggest Sizzix. I suggest this one mostly because it is high quality and you can get die cuts for reasonable prices (and mix and match from other brands). It also does embossing. You can get it for $69.99 (with free shipping) on our website from Joann.com. Sizzix also has their new Bigkick that does all the same as the regular one, but can accept bigger die cuts as well.
Cricut is also another die cut machine that is computerized. It is more expensive ($249.99), but it does a lot more than a regular diecut machine. So if you have the funds, I would definitely invest in this one. I wrote an article on Cricut last year that will give you the lowdown on this product.