I worked at ACC. When I was an FO there, I cleared $500/week after taxes, insurance, etc. pretty sure that there isn't a single 121 regional carrier that'll pay you that much your first year after taxes, union fees, etc., but I could be wrong. Maybe Republic with their $5k bonus...
In regards to the equipment...well, it taught me good instrument skills, since there's no AP on any of their planes. Would've been nice on some long flights!
Feel free to PM me with any questions.
Convair