The general consensus of opinion is use a 7 1/4" thin kerf blade. Most are thin kerf these days. The 7 1/4 will just give you a thinner blade than you can get with any 10" blade. In cutting strips, there's no need for a large blade. I use a $9 Black and Decker ripping blade - 30 tooth. You want a ripping blade and not too many teeth. I find no need in spending much money on a 7 1/4 for ripping. I rip oak with this blade too and in cuts like butter. I think it's called a Piranha.

For fine cabinet work and a 10" blade, I think that's where you may really feel the difference in a higher priced blade. The balancing is better, they're quieter. better quality control, but I'm not convinced they actually cut better.

Congratulations on your saw!