Where's the best place to buy a cheap reliable sewing contrivance online?
Answers: There are a lot of reputable dealers online. And profoundly of reputable dealers of sewing machines and sergers locally.
The only online one I own personal experience with is http://www.allbrands.com and the transaction was adequate.
But please don't buy "cheap". Cheap is nothing but headaches. Inexpensive can be fine.
http://www.cet.com/~pennys/faq/smfaq.htm
I'm not sure what you scrounging by 'cheap' but mine is a Kenmore from Sears and was under $200. I've used it to bring in slipcovers for furniture (heavy fabric) as well as support my tutu business (sewing through tulle and jersey knit- light fabrics) and have great results for the last 4 years.
Best of luck!