Tape deck for home recording?

[Irematic]

I want to start recording myself to cassette tapes at home, but I'm a little lost on what machine to look at using and was wondering if anyone has any recommendations. This is just a little hobby thing for myself, so I'd like to keep it under $300 if possible but don't necessarily have a hard set budget. I want something moderately competent but I don't necessarily need all the bells and whistles and highest fidelity possible.
I'm not sure if I should look at a new machine or a vintage one? Any specific recs? Thank you.

 

[iqi616]

I've been using a JLCooper PPS-2 to stripe SMPTE. I think I paid about $10 for it on ebay but it was years ago. Its still working and striping.

Part of me wants to fix mine and the other part says it'll be quicker and easier just to track down a replacement.

 

[tothemax]

I saw the recent updates on this thread... without any input from the OP. Hope we didn't kill the interest in recording... I was going to mention that there are quite a few "Tape" plugins for DAW's that will enhance that sound if that is what they are looking for.