The are deals to be had. I just picked up a working but dirty Cyclone for $500. Four of my six machines were purchased on a very tight budget. I paid $100 for my Gottlieb Pro Football, $150 for Chicago Coin Hula Hula and $250 for the Gottlieb Genie. Make sure you talk up your new hobby and that everyone you know is aware that you are into Pinball. Three of my machines were purchased via word of mouth from people who knew I had an interest and were looking to get rid of that old machine in the basement that the kids no longer play. You never know when one will come your way. The Cyclone was a call from a friend who's next door neighbors sister was moving and couldn't take the machine. Be patient in your search and don't give up on your pinball dreams.