I reccomend a BCM 18in rifle length system. BCM is reasonably priced, and, well I am a fan boy! Never had short stroking, malfunctions, or even a jam in my BCM uppers.
Agreed. For a first upper, its tough to go wrong with BCM. Most people have a preference on Lower Parts Kits. Mine is Rock River Arms. Doesn't cost much more than a DPMS or Spikes LPK, but the triggers seem to be very smooth without any extra work.