Interesting dilemma. You can start with a single action, they are cheap, but if you enjoy airbrushing and the level it takes your modeling too, you will quickly find yourself looking for a dual action, internal mix. I say, if your going to do it, and your reasonably serious that you will continue airbrushing, then go for a good quality AB right off the bat.
If you are going for high end then choose
- Gravity Fed / Internal Mix
- Dual Action
I have an Aztek and a Badger 150LG. I like them both. (Most folks here hate Azteks, but I don’t have any problems with mine. You just need to know how to adjust yourself to them, as they are little unorthodox. I think that’s why folks dislike them.) It's less about the AB and more about the artist…
The Me-109 and Raiden where done with an Aztek (See my webpage for pics)
So, some good brands to look at are (in no particular order)
- Badger (Thayer & Chandler)
- Aztek
- Omni
- Paasche
The same goes for a compressor. You can go for el cheapo, but consider the cost/quality and lifespan of the machine.
Do a search on the brands I mentioned in the “advanced” search page and remember to start the search back a ways, in terms of the date.
Read and take it all in. Then make your choice.
Good Luck!