I've got a traditional link to the Internet via my telephone line.
Before I call up my Internet Service Provider, what are my options as
I move up to high-speed? Is there a website or two -- and a virtuous
answer will provide me with just the best one or two, neither of which
try to sell me anything -- that explains the options, requirements and
values clearly and concisely?

Hello Mccook,
I assume that by "traditional link", you mean dial-up, which is so far
the cheapest (initially) connection type, wherein the computer dials a
number to connect to the ISP. I just got a few sites that provide tips
on connection type options for lay people like you.

Senior Tech Center: Internet Connection Options
http://www.seniortechcenter.org/reference_library/networks/internet_connection.php

Laubach Literacy Ontario - Internet Connection: Options
http://www.laubach-on.ca/know_your_options.htm

Choosing your ISP & Internet Connection Type
http://www.arts.uwaterloo.ca/ACO/newsletters/s01/articles/isp_and_connection_type.html

Computing.Net - Getting Connected - Choosing a Connection
http://www.computing.net/novice/internet/choosecon.html

MyNoodle.org - Choosing the Best Internet Connection - Seeking Connection Nirvana
http://www.mynoodle.org/noodlesoup3/072903_internet_connection.htm


I just included these as examples of the prices of some Service
providers. Be warned, they are Adobe PDF Documents you have to
download:
Internet Connection Options for Home Use (PDF Document)
http://www.sols.uq.edu.au/solsnews/october03/Home_internet.pdf 

Internet Services Group - What are my Internet Connection options and
costs? (PDF Document)
http://www.syssrc.com/html/internet/AccessCost.pdf

May I suggest that you do call up your ISP and find out what are there
faster internet plans, while looking about for DSL and cable options.

Google Search terms used:
internet connection options
internet connection choosing

I hope this has been a most helpful answer. If you need anything else,
or have a problem with the answer, do please post a Request for
Clarification and I shall respond as soon as I can. Thank you.

Just what I was looking for: fantastic work. Thanks very much.

Thank you for the five-star rating!