1 Stern. 1 classic.

That’s the formula. With space for just 2 games, they need to pair well.

First, the modern Stern. That’s going to be the big portion of your budget. Personally I’d pick the Pro model of your choice. I’d pick something that is “considered” great, because there will be a reason it’s great. And I’d also stick to a SAM game with good rules. Set it up just a bit mean so it doesn’t give away the wizard mode.

Second, a classic. Again, this is a preference. But a Bally, or classic Stern, or a Gottlieb EM. Whatever you like. but make it simple, and fairly quick playing.

Modern Stern games have great rules, and lots of different objectives to stay interesting. They can be a quest, but that makes them a bit more difficult for competitions. Whereas the classics are great to compete on because everyone stays interested. Short ball times keep it that way. So with a pair like that, you will have pinball for different situations and moods.