wensteve Posted June 28, 2015 Posted June 28, 2015 I keep seeing used controllers for sale and the prices are all over the place. They range from $80-$400. I can see some differences in generations but is there anything else that makes some worth more than others? We currently have 2 that we bought from Wowlights last year but if I can pick some used ones for $80 than I will. What do I need to look out for and do the older models do the same things that newer ones do?
saxon Posted June 28, 2015 Posted June 28, 2015 Older ones can not be used on 500k speed network- that's one difference. Other effecting cost would be if the controller was made from a kit vs preassembled by LOR. I have heard of people building from kits and selling them as factory built. Speaking of kits have you looked into that option? The y have kits that require soldering and some that don't. Others know more about these controllers than I but I just wanted to shoot you a quick response.
ItsMeBobO Posted June 28, 2015 Posted June 28, 2015 Over the years I have purchased used AC controllers and used CCRs and so far all have worked perfectly. You are correct that prices are all over the place. Personally I dont mind and expect people to get the most they can for anything they sell. There is no obligation for anyone to sell anything cheaply if they can find a buyer who doesnt know any better. You are not one of those buyers. For myself I would never pay anywhere close to the price of new equipment for equipment which is used and prior generations. Sale price for new residential LOR assembled controllers are around $200. Be sure to ask if the controller is fully assembled by LOR including the power and 16 cords. Are all 16 channels working and fading and are both Cat5 jacks working. If seller does not know or disclose then don't buy that controller. Require a picture of the exact controller, not a 'like this' picture or LOR website picture or link. It wont help a tight budget buying something that does not work properly.
MikeERWNC Posted June 28, 2015 Posted June 28, 2015 The LOR summer sale is coming soon! WAIT!It is absolutely worth the wait. Not as good as the Spring sale but better than risking high used prices.
mpageler Posted June 28, 2015 Posted June 28, 2015 Irregardless of the used price, it will not be covered by LOR warrenty which is for the originial end user...buyer.So buying used AC controllers that are pushing $200, just doesn't make sense when you can buy a new one w/warrenty during LOR sales in the same price range.Don't use EBAY as a reference point since uneducated buyers are paying too much for used stuff.
George Simmons Posted June 29, 2015 Posted June 29, 2015 Like Bob, I've also bought quite a few experienced LOR controllers of almost all types. I've never had a more serious problem than a loose cat5 jack. Avoid too-good-to-be-true prices unless you know the buyer personally or have no doubt that the reason for the price is legitimate. In fact, my advice would be to entirely avoid people you don't know or have never heard of. There's a lot of fine folks with excellent reputations who are reducing their controller count to move more toward pixels. And if a legitimate seller has a problem board and they're reducing the price to ridiculous low level, keep in mind that LOR will repair/refurbish boards for something like 25 bucks. And for heaven's sake, don't even consider sending a penny to anyone named Dexter. :o
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