[SubConscious]

You're on the right path, regardless of which supermod you choose. Before you try either, I highly recommend playing the stock game so you can develop a better appreciation for the work that went into the mods. One word about Grey Wolves - they're coming out with "GWX" within the next month or so. I'm holding off on trying the GW experience until then.

Jones Generic Mod Enabler is a Godsend. I've used to install a variety of mods and it has worked flawlessly. I also highly recommend using Jones SH3 Commander to launch the game, as it will give you access to a number of very useful tweaks.

Everyone has their own favorite mods. I'm using the following:

NYGM 2.2
6_dials_nygm22 (This gives you slide-out huge dials that are very easy to read)
1500 Meter bearing overlay
Enhanced Nav Map Plotting Tools
Fubar's crew skins
Fubar's IXB Splint camo (a beautiful sub skin - I'm using a screenshot as a desktop now)

I also recommend using FRAPS to capture screenshots and movies. It's a great little program. Note that SH3 Commander and FRAPS are stand-alone programs that are not installed with the Generic Mod Enabler.

Good luck finding what best suits your tastes. You've also landed in a great community! Congrats!