I prefer Special 20's for all the reasons stated.
Golden Melody's are nice BUT the are equal tempered tuned. This is why they are diff from the other Hohners. Great for playing first position (or "straight harp" as some call it) or third postition. Not great for cross harp (or blues harp as some call it). Can sound a little harsh for this.
Lee Oskars are also equal tempered tuned (but are really well made and sound good). Again, this is why sometimes people say Lee Oskars are harsh.
Hohner Big River harps are a bargain. Useally a little micropore tape and some quick filing can make these sweet!!
But to me, for common available- out of the box-playability, I vote Special 20.
It occurs to me that some might not know about micropore tape etc.
here is a good link I just found:
http://www.harmonicasessions.com/oct04/h-workbench.html