I second the JGF 450TH w/cc35 motion. That's my combo and I'm quite happy with it.
They run about $50-55 and occasionally you'll see them on sale for less. It's an outstanding motor, particularly for the price.
I really like the Castlelink for my cc35, but you don't need it to start with. I just hate beep programming, seems like a crazy way to do things in this day and age. It makes a great christmas present too

Not that expensive but something you'll really value and enjoy for years. How many lame ties can you say THAT about?