I have to completely honest here, IMO there is only one table to buy if you are wanting to improve your skills and be somewhat competitive. Buy a Tornado, Even if it's a less expensive Whirlwind which i started off playing on in our old apartment, they have no ramped corners and are really fast and can prepare you for bar models. After you get comforatable with it maybe sell and move up to a used Coin-Op. By this time you will have the feel of the Tornado which after playing on them you will appreciate when you have to play on some broken down lower grade table. I picked up my Coin-Op for $500.00 and we have played at least 5000-6000 games on it, all i had to do was replace bearings and some new rods ( these tables are meant to last a lifetime so look at it like an investment) I am positive i can turn and get my money back tommorrow on my own Tornado. I hope this helps. Ask me any more questions I would be glad to help you out locating one.
Snake