What is a good starter apple computer?

Perhaps the 11" or 13" MacBookAir.

Tech specs here > http://www.apple.com/macbook-air/specs.html

It really depends on what you want to use the Mac for.

If you use any apps such as Adobe Photoshop or other intensive photo / video editing software, you may want to consider an iMac instead > http://www.apple.com/imac/

If you want portability and office / school use then look into a Macbook 11 or 12 inch models.

If you want to do video editing then get a Macbook Pro 13 or 15 inch with 16gb. of ram and a large hard-drive.

It depends on what do you want to do with Mac.

Try to use Mac at Apple Store and ask about it to store staff.

The highest spec you can afford! Honestly. As soon as you start using it, you will find so many more things to do.