If you are an occasional welder then you can get by fine with a buzz box, i.e., an arc welder with both AC and DC current with about 225-250 amps. There are lots of rods available to suit your needs. Learn the differences, buy an assortment and learn to use each one. DC current is good for overheads. I was certified on several rods a LONG time ago and we had no MIG welders so if someone claims you "have" to have one...tell them to go fly a kite.
There is no point in a MIG unless you have a lot of work to do or like to spend money. However there are always deals to be had on about everything.
Guess I don't understand your question about a wire spool that stands up vs laying down. The drive wheels are in the welding machine and push the wire out thru the lead so spool position makes no difference if I understand you correctly. If I don't it's because I haven't had my medication today.
