heh
Also, are there tanks that are best, per it's given function (light, medium, heavy, etc etc)? I feel like this is one of those games where there are probably a few clear cut tanks that are better than others, while a majority of them are just suited to a certain type of player.
Like for me, I loved the T1. It was fast and fairly powerful... Even though I was experimenting with other light tanks, they just seemed to not be as good. Either the upgrades they got weren't as good, or the base weapons and functionality wasn't as high, so gaining resarch points is tougher.
Any websites or forums that discuss this (besides here)?
A good forum for you to read up on is the one at the World of Tanks website.
http://forum.worldoftanks.com
That's really where you'll find the most advice condensed in one place.
In my opinion, a great tank line to focus on for a beginner through to tier 10 is the American heavies. I finished that line last month when I unlocked the t110E5. It's a great tank and is heavily used in clan wars. The main strategy to use for the American heavies is "hull down", that is, keep your chassis hidden as best you can and only expose your turret. The Tier 7 and tier 8 (t29 and t32) have very strong turrets that are very difficult to pen. The T29 is considered by many to be op for tier7. In my opinion, the American heavy line is easy mode.
You are going to find that the most popular medium tanks in the game are the Soviets. The T-54 is great. The tier 10 - t62a and object 140 are considered the best mediums in the game and are staples of clan wars. These are the mediums that are recommended to new players the most.
Also, there are very many fun tanks and great lines to explore. Everyone has their own opinions. Try not to put too much stock into whiners who complain that certain tanks suck after only playing a few battles into them. Each tank in the game has it's strengths and weaknesses and they all have their place.
Take the French lights/mediums/heavies for example. I'd say that they are challenging for beginners since they have very little armor. Once you master their play style they can really perform. I've completed both the medium and heavy lines of French tanks.
Another overlooked line that is underrated in my opinion is the British medium line. I just unlocked the tier10 this morning. In my opinion they are some of the best mediums in the game, although they take skill to play effectively. The tier 6 - cromwell is awesome and one of the funnest tanks I've played. The tier 7 and 8 comet and centurian are also great and grinding them was a breeze. The tier 9 Centurion 7/1 is an excellent medium and has a great reputation on the forums. This is probably my favorite tank line at the moment.