I first started to learn on a cheap nylon stringed classical guitar. I wouldn't recommend it to anyone who wants to learn for reasons of playing camp fire/pop/party songs. When someone finally put a steel stringed guitar in my hand I nearly gave up!

I know you didn't particularly want to go into brand names, but it's always fun. :)

You suggested not wanting to spend lotsa $$'s, so I would suggest that ignore the 'Martin' boys at least for a little while until you get the hang of things, then start saving your pennies. It's pointless spending large amounts of hard earned cash on something you might not stick at.

For just a couple of hundred dollars (or less) you can pick up a cheap Fender accoustic intro package new. Hardly my instrument of choice, but they do for a while. Sooner or later a point will come when you know. Then you can start dreaming about the Martins, Guilds etc.

Go with the steel strings mate, and build up them callouses!!! -nobbler