I don't know squat about Elton Doucet's accordions. I have friends who have Martins and friends who have Arcadina's, so that's the direction I was thinking. What's your opinion on them?
Martins are great accordions, but since they sell for around $2,500-$3,000 new, it's very unlikely you'll find a used one for $1,800. "Arcadina" isn't a familiar brand - maybe you mean "Acadian" (Marc Savoy's brand), which are also great accordions -- and in the same price range as the Martins. So again, good luck finding one for $1,800.
You might want to check a thread I posted a couple months back on current prices for used accordions -- estimates there seemed reasonable. At the price point you're looking for, there seem to be a fair number of used Larry Miller boxes around (Bon Tee and Bon Cajun brands), and they have a good reputation.
I am definitely not an expert as I just began attempting to learn to play, but I got a lot of people suggesting Doucet's accordions when I was looking to buy. He's got a pretty **** good reputation around here and has been building for a long time.
Others will have more to say about his accordions. Hopefully they'll chime in.
get with mr, Elton doucet! he will make it all better. have one of his myself,great box , sounds great, plays better everytime I pick it up now. pound for pound for the money it's a great deal for a good LA. box with a good sound.just my two cents worth. good luck and welcome to the nation.