I bought a Hohner Morgane. I have had a few people tell me they think it's nice as an entry-level box. It is Hohner's attempt to be a bit more Italian - it's not as shrill nor as tappy as a Pokerwork.

I have to say that I struggled teaching myself. There's a lot going on with the melodeon, and I don't play anything else, which probably makes it doubly hard.

I would recommend finding a tutor locally if you can - I've only had a few lessons so far, but I'm finding it makes a huge difference. Progress isn't particularly fast (would be faster if I practiced more!) but rather than just working with my right hand to start with, I'm learning left and right at the same time. And the penny is really starting to drop. It's great. :)