FWIW, I think a slate or glass call (basically same thing except for volume) are the easiest for a novice to make the greatest variety of "quality" calls. Push button is the easiest, but not as many sounds possible, at least not for a novice. Box call is the loudest, but hard for a novice to make the "subtle" sounds--nothing prettier than a well-made box call, however, hard to resist buying another. Reed is cheapest, very nice for hunting because no motion and nothing in your hands, and someone who is good with a reed call can make some really sweet sounds. A novice, however, can sound like a cat hacking a hairball for a while, if can avoid gagging and actually doing the "cat thing" (except no hairball).
So, I'd start with a glass or slate and at the same time buy a reed and start practicing with it. If you can reasonably master it, it's the nicest because no "junk" to carry around, and no motion/ready to shoot if he sneaks up on you. And get a box also, try to learn how to use it for variety and windy days when you need more volume than a reed or glass/slate can provide.
And, if you can master different calls you have an advantage, because hard-hunted birds seem to get used to a particular call type. Most people seem to use reeds these days, and if you have a "reed familar" bird he may run at the first sound from a reed, but still be a sucker for a sweet hen call from a slate.
When you try a reed (and be sure you do), you may find that you have to cut the sides down to avoid gagging, depending on the shape/size of your mouth. Be careful not to cut off too much, however, or won't be able to "seal" the back and produce any sound. Also, after using it soak it in some mouthwash for a few minutes--makes it taste better the next day, but more importantly can help prevent sore throats from all those wonderful bacteria floating around your mouth and proliferating in that nice wet call sitting in a warm place. Don't soak too long, or the adhesives will let loose.
