So I recently purchased an Iwata Eclipse BCS (siphon feed) because that is all this particular store had and I got it for around $70 with the airhose. Anyway, I am switching from a Paasche VL which I have used for years. I didn't expect much of a difference but boy was I wrong. The Iwata just feels better. I mean, I feel like I have way more control over my paint. I also feel that it uses less paint to cover the same area. I'm not sure if I am doing something different but I covered an entire 1/35 tank with what I consider to be a small amount of paint. I acutally used the paint cup that came with the Paasche and it worked perfectly on the Iwata.
This is just my opinion and i am by no means an exert, or for that matter, i am not even a good amature. I just wanted to chime in to let some people know my opinion.
Lastly, I would say if you enjoy modeling at all, get an airbrush. I mean for less than $200 you could be all set up. Less than a Nintendo Wii, playstation 3 or xbox 360. Quit being cheap and pony up the money for an airbrush...