Regarding the electronic kit option, I remember reading an article long ago, I think it was an Erskine interview, where he recommended avoiding e-drums for beginners. Something about how he could always tell when someone started out on e-drums because of their dynamics and touch. I don't know that I agree exactly, but it's worth thinking about. Certainly even the most advanced e-kit won't allow for all the subtleties you can get from acoustic drums and cymbals.

I'd have to agree somewhat.

Learning how to make bad drums sound good through tuning and experimenting with the drums can only really be found through experience.

Also, playing acoustic drums (particularly cymbals) helps a drummer learn how to make a kit sound good by through the playing.