The perfect board for me?

I am a begginner technically, but I got good quick and after 4 days on the slope I was keeping up with the seasoned riders...I am lookin for a board for myself now (I hate renting all the time) and I get lots of opinions and advice from friends. For right now, a board that is great for just cruisin down the mountain with effortless turn transitions is what im lookin for. I will eventually progress into the park (all my friends rip the park all day, so I guess I have to get there sometime). So here's a little summary: I'm 140lbs, 5'-8", 15 yrs old. I dont really need a progression board, just a board that would be versatile, real good for just cruisin down the slope, but can also ride switch and hit occasional rails, etc. I hear that Burton is "cheap" and "a waste of money", and also that it is "reliable" and "knows what they're doin with boards." I also hear that Ride is the best, Rome is the best, and Technine is the best. Could someone possible help me solve this confusion? thanks...btw, this is my first board im buying, and price isnt completely a factor, as long as its less than 600$