Need some insight and advice for picking my first stick!

I'm in the market for a stick. I was considering just getting a different controller since the dpad on the one I already own isn't good for fighters, but I figure hell, if I'm going to buy something specifically just for fighters, might as well get something cool. I'm a single dude with roommates, so I can afford it. And if I don't like it, I can always sell it to get some of my investment back.

The real question I am struggling with is whether I want an arcade stick or to go leverless. Leverless sounds like the way to go for input speed, but I've heard some good arguments for stick in regards to Tekken.

As far as what I am looking for personally, I'm not too picky I'd hope. I'd like it to be less than $200 (USD) if possible, but I'd be willing to go for $250 if the thing is perfect. I want to be able to customize it and make it my own. So something I can add custom art to without too much hassle would be a big selling point for me. I'm also a giant (6'5" / 198cm) so a larger stick would probably be more comfortable on my lap. I'm not too concerned with it being too heavy.

Any and all help is greatly appreciated. Feel free to show off your own sticks as well. Might help me get inspired for what I might want.