I'd guess with the two choices of machines he's considering budget will be between 900/1500 + -
Like bauschracing said, I'd talk with your local welding supply shop and see what they carry for parts, consumables and accessories for each machine. Even if they service said machines. It would **** to have to mail it or wait for things in the mail if anything does go sour.
I'd suggest an older Miller Syncrowave, great machines will run forever, and they are very reliable. Granted it is a transformer style machine but boy are they smooth. Maybe even a Hobart, you'd probably find one for a good deal. If you desire an inverter style machine and you only plan on welding Ti, I'd also look at a Miller Maxstar 200dx, very nice machine.