i support the classic 2000xl for life....
it all depends on your current setup.... and where your taking it
For a starter i recommend a 1000 or the older MPc2000
Mpc 2000 is a work horse......ebay $500 or so
Be prepared to spend a little for maintanance (Zip,Floppy,Ect.). .....
the 1000 is A portable Solution with alot of options......ebay $700
The operating system is a little better... More up to date with digital media...
Dont get the MPC 500..... Trust me... any beat machine that light and small is not meant to be beat on.......even if it is made by AKAI
I would say go For a mpc 1000 or a 2000xl (if you can find a good one)
But what audio equipment do you already have?
answering that question should help alot with your Dilema...