We need to get to Milan from the CT/Levanto area next July. Does anyone know where we can pick up a fast train? And how long it will take? Where can we buy our tix in advance and get the best rate?
Thank you!

Here is the answer to all your questions, the official Italian rail site:

http://www.trenitalia.com/en/index.html

You can't buy your tickets more than 60 days in advance--the complete schdeuls won't be posted. But you can check schedules and prices by using dates within the 60-day time period.

As these are largely regional or IC trains i think there is little or no advantage of buying tickets ahead of time - esp if you must deal with the very frustrating to zillions of Fodorites trenitalia.com. Just buy your ticket at any train station - no problem getting on - most of those trains do not require reservations and if they do you will get a seat assignment with the ticket

Savings on trenitalia.com are mainly, i believe on Eurostar Italia ES trains which do not run on this route i believe.

Actually, you can do it on a IC/Plus level train 3 times daily taking 2:49---not bad at all. I did see 11:01 and 15:01 as times. I doubt if you need to buy in advance.

If i had a choice i'd definitely take one of the ICplus trains Bob points out - much nicer and no risk of folks standing in aisles since all seats are reserved - cannot just hop on is my understanding