The spout is not mandatory but it sure makes things easier. The container should also have a wide mouth to let in air as well as a way to keep out flies. They are my assistants. The container should be glass or stainless steel for best results. Aluminum and iron is definately out.
Some plastics can work, some are dangerous because they react with vinegar.
So, for now, I would skip plastics. Some fresh fruit juice. But I would stay away from the bottled ones because they add chemicals to keep the juice from turning to vinegar. A starter culture. What you need are the bacteria which make vinegar.