Sara,

The so called entry level enlargers are usually not worth the scrap price for
the metal they are made out of.  One of the solid standards for years has been
the Omega D2.  Slightly smaller Omega B6 units are also solid.

As important as the enlarger is the lens and you will do well to stick with el
nikkors, componons (not componors) and rodagons.

Finally, while eBay is a treasure trove of bargains IF you know what you are
shopping for it may not be the best place for a newcomer to shop for a used
enlarger (will you be able to check alignment, for the proper condensor, etc.).
I suggest a call to Midwest Photo (web www.mpex.com) they are one of the best
and most reasonably priced sellers of used quality equipment in the US.  Ask
for Dan who handles darkroom stuff ... tell him what you want ... they offer
full returns and you will likely pay no more than eBay.  My only connection
with them is as a very satisfied customer.
Ted Harris
Resource Strategy
Henniker, New Hampshire

Go with a good professional or semi-pro brand - Beseler, Durst, Kaiser, LPL,
Omega, for example.  They are fairly inexpensive used, they last, and they
produce good results.  Dichro color enlargers can be used very well for
black and white - in fact they are a convenience.  Take one if the price is
right.  Get an enlarger that will fill your needs for the foreseeable
future.  If you use 35mm but may go to medium format in the future, buy a
2-1/4X3-1/4 enlarger.  Get a good enlarging lens.  There is no such thing as
a bargain there.  El-Nikkor, Rodagon-N Componon-S all perform well.