I'm always on the far end of the curve. I started on a Jet 1220 and upgraded to a Jet 1642 and am about to buy a 1220 - but from OneWay. The difference between the original Jet and OneWay is like comparing a Ford to a Rolls Royce IMHO. (The new Jet 1221 might be a Lincoln in that comparison.) The reason for the new purchase is not size and power but stability and speed for turning miniatures. BTW, I'm keeping the 1642 and could see a mustard monster or even a Robust in its place in a few years.
Here's my take - buy the best you can afford. If you can find a real steal on Craig's List or eBay then fine, otherwise the Jet warrantee is hard to beat and the new models are a considerable improvement and are on sale right now. The better quality, the better chance of re-sale if you do not like the hobby, or just find it too expensive. Also the better chance of turning a presentable project. Also the longer before you out-grow the machine and feel the need to upgrade.
As to gouges, the ability to take and hold an edge (new turners take awhile to learn to re-sharpen often enough, at least I did and so did most everyone I ever talked to about it) and tool balance, etc all take a part in learning tool control.
Retired - when every day is Saturday (unless it's Sunday).