I use just about *every* pad around. I've used Sonus DAS and SFX, LC VC and DA pads, and Megs. I haven't tried the Propel pads which I've heard are equal to Sonus DAS pads.
My recommendations are:
Medium cut
Sonus Orange DAS (a bit firm at first and feels weird but works aggressively, and leaves a great finish)
LC Orange VC pad (curved surface takes a little getting use to, but if you can master it, its' raised egde cuts better than anything without inducing too much hazing)
Propel Orange (not tried this but heard its similar to Sonus orange)
Light cut
Sonus green DAS (just lovely)
Megs yellow (nothing wrong with this one)
LC white DA (good work-horse with a bit more cut - halfway to medium cut - than the previous two)
Propel green (not tried this but heard its similar to Sonus green)
The Sonus SFX are a bit unusual. I haven't tried them very much but all leave a good finish, even the most aggressive yellow pad. They feel a tad different to work with, providing more polish wetness and work time. I really want to like these but haven't had enough experience to make a recommendation - sorry.
*My* pick from the above, with *my* experience with each pad's quirks, would be different from what I'd recommend to a neophite.
For the newb I'd say: Propel orange and green (or Sonus DAS green).
I hope this helps.