Redbud, It really doesn't make much difference as long as the valve you have is all weather, and low voltage.
Most irrigation valves are weather proof.
This season I will run about 40' of hose after my valve before it connects to the manifold. As long as you are working on flat ground you'll be o.k. If your hose were running down hill the entire hose would drain after each cycle and could be a problem. Most irrigation valves are weather proof. This season I will run about 40' of hose after my valve before it connects to the manifold.