I am too a old new bee
.. recently I was searching for answer to the same question. What is a good multi meter when I am working on mostly 0-30V and 0-5A current. There are enticing models ex Uni-t ut139c or ut61e 22k count and TrueRMS which are available for $40-$60 range. So my logic tree is like below
If ( you are a student and occasional hobbyist ) then
don't spend a lot of money go for a name brand.
else ( if (you are sure you want that extra resolution and want to be precise to 0.05%) ) then
spend a bit and go for mid range Brymen / ExTech / CEM // and so on
An excellent example would be eevBlog re-badge Brymen
else ( if (money is not an object
and you can spend a few $1000s i.e. $600is )) then
you have so many options..
Fluke is definitely a very good brand to consider.. their meters will virtually last ages and can be found in prehistoric sites used by our ancestors ..
Fluke 87v - $360ish, Brymen 869s $220ish, Extech 530 - $170ish, Extech 540 - $300ish, CEM DT (equivalent) $150sh there are so many
else
do your research - budget -> requirement -> models
Btw I have gone ahead and purchased
Fluke 87v new for $370
Extech EX540 - Ebay for $120
Uni-t UT171B $180