Replying to Best beacon for Noobz

Hello all! So my friends have finally convinced me to drop vail resorts and to start touring. Ive been doimg some research on beacons and im a little overwhelmed. What are your favorite models\brands? What features do you really enjoy\hate? Im assuming that simplicity is key when it comes to a noob like myself. I plan on getting geared up this summer so I can have it all ready when I take my avy 1 course next winter, so if something new is coming out soon i have some time to wait.

Thanks!!!