I was thinking of getting Vonage for long distance calls, but when I
called the 1-800 number to get info, I was asked to choose between
EarthLink and Vonage before I could even get basic information or
speak to someone. I also spent 15 or 20 minutes reading Vonage boxes
at Wal-Mart, but got confused as to which equipment I should buy for
the DSL connection that I currently have through Bellsouth (with local
calling service). I basically know very little else about VOIP
service.

I know I'm *not supposed to ask for opinions, only facts; so here are
factual based questions that may assist my decision making process and
reduce my research time:
1)What is currently the most popular VOIP deal in the United States for
people who currently have Bellsouth DSL?*
2)What equipment and upfront costs (within 10%) are necessary to get
started with that service?
3)What monthly expenses including all taxes and fees (within 10%) are
currently associated with this service.
4) Do I need to sign a contract for an extended period of time, or can
I use the service on a monthly basis and drop the service whenever I
want?

*I am open to different solutions to get the information I need. 

Comments are encouraged and appreciated.

This doesn't really answer your question, per se, but if you want to
stick with your local service from BS you can get unlimited long
distance from them for about the same cost as Vonage's unlimited plan.