[Closed] DSLR - where do you start?

I am at the very early stages of looking into DSLRs. Where do I start? What do I look for? How do I tell a good one from a donkey? (For the sake of this thread, let's assume consumer entry level as opposed to prosumer etc).

Shops tend to tell you what you want to hear and reviews assume a certain level of knowledge or competence. I am not qualified enough to tell good advice from sales bullsh*t at the moment.

I haven't had a SLR since the days of film and I'm sure things have moved on since then! How about lenses? Do you still need a telephoto, wide angle and a host of others to get the result you are looking for or are modern lenses capable of covering most of the bases?

I want to be able to cover a wide range of subjects from detailed close ups to 'arty' landscapes. Ordinary 'snapping' and ride shots can be covered by my pocket camera.

Thanks