Some plan to cut vinyl out of their garage or extra bedroom more like a hobby. In which case they might enjoy a brand new machine (even if it's a cheapie) and pretend design software. And the idea of all new equipment is sort of fun since they might not be really cranking out a lot of
sign work. Nothing wrong with that....I'm just not used to that way of thinking. We run full tilt all the time and lean towards equipment that simply gets the job done.
With plotters there's the question of....is it capable of industrial use or only hobby use ? Quality machinery like servo motors (used by Graphtec & other high end plotters) as compared to stepper motors.....as well as speed, down pressure, pounce capabilities etc. All are things that have made Graphtec plotters capable of industrial use. That's the type of plotters some need....while others are more into it as a hobby.....at least at first.
For me.....I'd take a used industrial capable Graphtec over a new 'hobby' only capable plotter.