I will agree with everyone who says that there is not really a "starter BCD". As a beginner diver, you can use any recreational setup: a jacket BCD, a back-inflate BCD, or a BP/W. The distinctions dont come until you start added more tanks, etc.
Correct me if Im wrong, but what I think you really want is to keep the price below $500.
Unlike most of scubaboard, I am not going to insist that you ABSOLUTELY NEED a BP/W. However, as a fellow Monterey diver, I will tell you that I appreciate dropping a little bit of lead (~2-3 lbs), b/c a BP/W doesnt have padding that you will need to sink. (You also replace some lead with the ballast of the BP/W, but you're not really dropping weight, just moving it elsewhere)
The drawback to the BP/W is that you have to put it together. People here will lie and say its super easy to do -- its not complicated per se, but it is a chore to painstakingly adjust, readjust, etc. until it fits you perfect. It was a PITA for me. But you only have to do it once. (One option is to buy an adjustable harness, but that may put the cost above $500 - basic webbing is super cheap).
Someone already put the DGX package up = an economical, no frills BP/W for $400 ($425 for SS, which you'd probably want). Basically what I dive.
However, there is nothing wrong with a back inflate BCD, or even a jacket style if that is what you prefer.
One thing I recommend is 2 tank straps, or make sure the one tank strap is secure. Ive seen too many tanks slipping through the years. Oh and for Monterey diving (thick wetsuit or drysuit), you want at least ~30 lbs lift (which is exactly what the DGX wing provides)
I dont have any brand recommendations. I am cheap, so you can look for clearance BCs on Scuba.com.
