Thanks for the suggestion. What's the anonymity of these guys and what kind of fees on say $1000 to start with?
Bitcoins Direct/Tangible Cryptography is the way to go.
No fees on their side for buying BTC, you'll get a discount in most cases. I've used them several times and the main operator runs a very smooth operation, read the feedback thread.
Do you have a Wells Fargo or BOA near you? Deposit cash into their account...get sent BTC - couldn't be easier. Otherwise you can use a wire transfer, but your bank will probably charge for that.