Used to own an A77 back in the 80's....fun to play with, but when learned that Betamax could record audio at near CD quality, it got lost.....
Still annoyed VHS became the 'standard'......
Take a grip on the above....tape types, condition, tracks, et all.....
You're buying 'vintage', circuitry and mechanical....it may need surgery of sorts.
Cost will be a factor unless you feel lucky....
Good luck with the plunge. Share what you find if it's really novel.
Always good to hear a 'happy ever after all THAT'... *L*