I have tried the chines route and its a real mixed bag, its a luck dip, you could come out welll but it is a gamble.

The only way to KNOW what your getting is to get the real deal.

I have a bunch of 2nd hand martin stuff that i have refurbed, its amazing how well good design and maintenece helps a product stand the test of time.

Some times dichros and parts can be a little on the steep side but when all is said and done you have a top notch fixture, that will soldgier on.

Not only keep an eye on ebay but also auction houses you never know when production houses will hit hard times and have to flog off older gear.