OFF: Audiophile Help

[Hall, Russell J]

Looking for advice on cassette decks.

My old one is slowly giving up the ghost and I am looking at getting a new
one.

I have been looking at ones like the Sony TC-825S (with Dolby S), TC-625,
and TC-425,
Denon 585, and a Pioneer model (???).

My questions are numerous since I really do not know what I am looking at.
Which brand is better (if any), is Dolby S worth the extra money, what
features seem worthwile (fader/RMS/AMS/Maula Bias/etc).

Thanks

BTW> price ceiling is $250.