Good bass guitar for a beginner?

I've been interested in picking up an instrument for a while and I've always loved bass. Whats a good bass guitar for beginners? I'd like to eventually work up to a five or six string bass, so should ai go on and start out with a five string? I'd like to get one new not used but also not break the bank, so what are your suggestions. By the way I'm interested in playing rock/metal music if that makes a difference.