Entry level... Cheap with the understanding that it won't last forever
I would advise you to not think like this when it comes to this hobby unless you understand exactly what you are doing and what the consequences are. Get the best equipment you can afford especially when it comes to pressurized co2.
Even for now if you can only afford a good standard (cga-320) regulator, you can buy paintball tank adapters that will allow you to use a standard regulator on paintball tank threads. This would be a cheaper up-front option until you can purchase a standard (cga-320) cylinder though if you were to buy 2-3 paintball tanks you would be close enough in price to where a standard cylinder wouldn't be that much more money.
If you understand it won't "last forever", you are just wasting money, IMO, that could be used towards quality equipment. Waiting until you have that quality equipment will make your experience much more fulfilling and less stressful.
Having said that, I've heard decent reviews for Co2Art regulators and I'm pretty sure they have a "state-side" customer service although, they do ship from the UK.
Milwaukee's have been around a long time and though they may be "cheap" and have their own inherent issues, lots of people have them so trouble shooting issues shouldn't be a problem if they arise.
Aquatechs are pretty popular and considered entry-level.
Actually, I guess you can consider all 3 of those entry level but all have their issues. Mainly, from my research, it's the needle valves in those regulators that has issues, also the solenoids.
I bought a gla-gro1 about 4 months ago and couldn't be happier. It did cost $220-shipped but I haven't regretted it at all. 3 year warranty is great. That's also a good thing to look for and ask about with any bit of equipment, a warranty.
Add a 5# pound cylinder I bought locally for $90 filled (you exchange it when it's empty) and I'm in about 300 bucks (not including inline atomizer or drop checker, add about another $50) But now I don't have to worry about quality issues.
Pressurized co2 can be done for less money but you have to look at it as an investment and also be conscious of re-sale value. Is it something that will hold value or will it depreciate in value the second you but it? If a piece of equipment doesn't work out for your particular needs, do you have a $100 paper weight or is it something you can make $75 back on? IMO, I wouldn't pay $100+ for a new Milwaukee/co2art/aquatech if I could find a good used gla/victor/matheson for $150+, maybe even cheaper than that if you look hard enough. But what you are getting is quality, reputation, and locally sourced parts (if needed).
With any hobby, purchase the best equipment your budget allows and never stop researching.
On a side note, have you considered building one yourself? Lots of info on this and other forums on building your own. You may not be out any less cash but I can guarantee it will be a better product than 75% of the regulators available and you will also learn something valuable in the process.
