When I got into playing bass, I got an Ibanez soundgear 400 (I think), it was perhaps more of a midline bass but it has served me well and I still think it looks sick. It's all monochrome black--the knobs, the neck, the body, everything. I really like the Ibanez's....
Also, I have a 12" Peavey 112 bass amp that might be a good first amp. I bought it new and it was what I started out with. Now I use a stack amp when I play. Let me know if you are interested, I'd let it go for a really reasonable price.. like half. It's in perfect shape and is a quality piece.
Cheers