don't hafta go for the top, but take your time and watch for good used for awhile - not cheap second hand NOS, but something from someone who's 'downsizing' or an estate sale - or like I found, a 5hp 2 stage 100 gallon antique from an old service station .... for 400 you can get a good used setup, but with new at that price you'll be compromising, and sand blasting isn't likely to be something that'll be very workable - if thats the primary thing you're wanting a compressor for, hire out that part
Bill
