I recommend a 7¡± x 16¡± hands down.
I bought one from MicroMark at least a dozen years ago. My experience has been positive with this machine. I¡¯ve been using lathes since I was 12 years old. My Dad bought a 9¡± SouthBend and I cut my teeth on that machine. Buy the best you can afford if you intend to stick with this hobby and you will be rewarded over time.
OldToolmaker