I've always used kegs, they're great. The CO2 setup (5# bottle, regulator, tubing, quick connectors) will cost you about $150. You might be able to buy the bottle and regulator at gas supply company cheaper than you can at a brewer's supply but you'll have to go to the brewer's for the connectors. The regulator doesn't need to be fnacy but the outlet gauge should be easy to read and accurate at lower pressures. The kegs can be gotten at the brewer's supply or a soda bottling plant if there's one near you. If you buy used kegs inspect the inlet and outlet valves for dings or gouges that might prevent a good seal with the quick connects. Also take your CO2 with you. Pressurize the keg and wet the valves and filler area to check its internal seals. There should be no bubbling around any of them. If they bubble get the seller to knock off a few bucks for new O-rings adn rebuild the valves when you get it home. As to pressure, it can be a little tricky. When you first keg the beer put a few pounds of pressure on the keg just to close the seals up tight. Durring this last fermentation you'll need to blow it down once or twice to releive the built up CO2. Too much pressure will stop the fermenting. Just pull the relief valve for a second or two. Don't let all the pressure out or you'll have to re-pressurize to close the seals again. I've found 4psi to be a magic number for serving the beer. It gives a good flow without excesive head. Your regulator may be a little different. Sorry to ramble on so long. Its been a while since I've talked homebrew. Anybody have a good recipe to share?
