Dumbells

I use them. They're pretty easy to get into - just find a workout regimen that utilizes them. scoobysworkshop.com is good.

I start with 10 pounds of weight initially and I increase my weight by 5-10% every two weeks.

I use them for should flys, shoulder shrugs, incline, decline and regular bench press. Trying to use a bar for bench press feels really uncomfortable for me. It's like I can feel my elbows tearings. I just lift the bad boys into postion like if they were a barbell, and lift. The seperate dumbells means your arms can move through a more natural arc, so it feels better. You also employ more muscles to stabilize the movement, so it's more of a compound movement. Bodybuilding . com has a good guide to exercises. I was using the machines, but they only do so much. Mostly I use old school weights, but I still through the machines in there to mix it up so I don't get bored.
Start off with the 5lbs weights, and don't worry about the big buff guys laughing at you, they won't..and even if they do, who cares. Get the form down nicely, and then start going up in weights. I try to do 3 sets of ten for all arm exercises, when they get easy, I move up in weight.
You are going to like freeweights, they do more for you than machines...I understand, however, that the gyms don't have more of tthem because the machines are more impressive to people who are starting out.

i only use dumb bells and barbells. the cybex machines are o k for a beginner, but to really get the better workout i have found dbs do it for me!!

I pickup barbells. With my teeth. And my taint.

pick em up put em down kinda guy?