Coming back after 20 years, I'm so lost.

Played a lot when I was younger (late 90's early 00's, peak Skirmish / M.I. Paintball days), paintball has been all over my feed and I've got the itch to come back. I've done quite a bit of research but I'm overwhelmed with all the options now. Brief marker history, BE Stingray II, Tippmann 98c (wasted so much on mods), WGP Prostock (2k3/2k4?), ICD B2K.

I'm looking to spend $500-$1000 to start and see where it takes me. It seems markers, hoppers, tanks, and masks are so close in performance these days it's more preference and convenience than anything else. I'll list the options I've checked out below.

Mini GS - These things are super affordable, and reviews seem solid for the price (gives me OG Ion vibes). If I upgraded down the road I'd keep this as a backup or let my friends / son use it (he's almost old enough to play).

Axe 2.0 - Seems like a nicer version of the Mini GS, more features / QoL stuff. I really like how the Empire markers look (metal, color schemes, tight frames). Still cheap enough I'd keep this around as a backup / spare for my son / friends.

Etha 3 - You guys really love this thing, it's impossible to ignore. Does it really outperform the other two by that much? I'll be honest I hate how it looks.

For everything else I'm open to suggestions (68/4500 CF Tank, Thermal Mask w/ wide FOV, hopper that isn't junk, pods?).

I build PC's and have firearms so I'm accustomed to tinkering / maintenance. Not worried about cleaning stuff or keeping it running (I kind of enjoy it). I found a site that has 10% off for military so price wise it sets the Mini GS and Axe 2.0 even further away as they don't sell the Etha 3. Not really looking for used unless it's some color / setup that really catches my eye.

Thanks to anyone to who takes the time to read this. If you guys know any good spots in NJ let me know, I've been eyeing up Cousins and Long Live.