5k at 30? Seems standard. Easy to keep a good ratio at that. We used to aim for 34-38 for 2k, 30-34 for 5k, and 28-30 for longer for standard training. So, with good form, you should be able to keep the proper ratio at that.

I guess I'm really biased because I'm on a club team and spend a lot of hours per week on these machines. I really don't like either the model B nor the model C. Once you get used to the model D, I really can't imagine using an older model.

You might be fine with them. I'd suggest trying one of the older models out, giving it a good hard row or two before purchasing, to see if its something you'd use for a while. The older machines have less sophisticated monitors, are louder, tend to be in worse shape (granted with a little care these machines seem to last forever), and have different handles. I really hate the handles on the old machines, though this would be an inexpensive upgrade.

check classifieds on www.row2k.com for pricing guides. and yes, being in Boston would help a lot, lol. If you're having trouble finding any, try contacting local clubs/universities.

Yeah I bought the model C. Its in really good condition..the guy bought it used it for 6 months and then barely used it at all because he moved right next door to a gym that had tons of rowers etc.

I don't really care about the monitor thingie..and it doesn't seem terribly loud. But maybe I'll check out the newer handles to see if they really are all that much different. I'm not to picky with stuff like that..and its not like I know much about rowing anyways.

Rowing machine is by far the hardest cardio for myself, but i have poor upper body strength