What is the best dslr camera and lens for an amateur photographer?

[Matt K.]

Nikon D-90/7000/300s. Any one of the three will give you the features that you'll want sooner or later and allow you a broader choice of lens.

I second that. I started out with a D5000, then upgraded to a D300s. Had I bought a D90, I would most likely still use it and would not have thought of the D300s. I like both, and they both render good results; as it is with everything: the person behind the instrument will make it work. No matter what you get.