There is nothing inherently wrong with a straight gauge spoke, provided u buy a quality one like a Sapim or similar. My preference is definitely butted butted... The Sapim Force triple butted is by far the best value for the money. Well worth the trivial amount of added cost.
Anyone with a reasonable amount of patience can build a bike wheel and do a fine job. A wheel stand is not needed, you don't need attention meter. Ignore a good deal of what you read on the internet and just sit down and make your plan. You sure you can make mistakes, everyone does eventually. But riding 'your own' is a happy experience.
o