New to pinballing ( after 30 years away from it!)

  I have always enjoyed pinball and ready to buy one now but don't know where to start!  I remember a few years ago talking with a man named Don Dellos from Rock Around the Clock in the Sacramento/Rocklin, Ca area and he explained what to look for; of course I don't remember now but something different/better about the older ones and the newer (solid state?).  Can't find him now so I'm a little concerned about getting and finding someone here locally for repairs and even where to buy one (or two!).  Can anyone out there help me?  Thank you and looking forward to talking with others who it enjoy them like my wife and I do!