Not trying to be a smarty-pants, but you spay females and neuter males. So there really isn't such a thing as a spayed male.
Notwithstanding certain humans of course...
My father in law has had two beagles. Great dogs if they have company and plenty of exercise as they are fairly high energy and have surprisingly good endurance. Hound breeds except Grayhounds are all "talkers". They are also a little willful especially when they are in a tracking mode. Very charming (as are all hounds in my opinion) but not a dog I would recommend for everyone.
Spend a couple of weeks with the dog if you can - no commitment. Make sure you fit each other before you make this decision. Don't be afraid to return the dog if it doesn't work out. Good dogs deserve perfect homes and yours may not be perfect for him.
angela