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I wouldn't get a non-AF lens for an AF-equipped body unless you want to mod the body with a focusing screen. And that's not something I would consider if I were at your level of experience.
SO, F's, FA's, and DA's are where I would recommend looking. The DA 50 1.8 is fast focusing and light weight and the IQ is pretty good as is flare resistance. The F and FA 50 1.4's and 1.7's will outperform it a bit but you may not really notice this in practice, especially without pixel peeping. You really can't go wrong with any of these. The D-FA 50 isn't something I would recommend as it is massive and costly. The DA*55 seems very nice (I've never used it) but I would almost rather get a cheap 50 1.7 or 1.8 and sell that on if you decide to try the DA*55 and like it.
You can buy used for the price of renting these lenses twice, so honestly, I might suggest just buying one and giving that a shot. Full disclosure: I have a DA 50 for sale here and would recommend buying even if I wasn't. Rent for $45 all in vs. buy for $80? Seems like buying makes more sense here (which is rare).