I bought a producer new and out the door it came to around 6 grand. I didn't know anything about hydroponics back then, and I owe pretty much everything I know now to my knowledge aquired on the internet, and being able to experiment on that machine. I'm not sure I would have been able to do what I've done without something as automated as the producer, nor would I have had the know-how or ability to make my own system, as I'm a genius with computers, but a total dunce when it comes to tools.
That being said.
I think it's a very bad price, period. The tech support is nice, but the guys on the online tech support are typically very inarticulate and can be difficult to communciate with. 6 grand is NOT for the new models with the computer that does PH, that will cost you somewhere around 8 grand total, which is outrageous. Understand the yield for these boxes is typically around 1 pound a harvest. It takes excellent genetics, and absolutely no mistakes to break anywhere around 1.5+ lbs, and there are plenty of repeat harvesters in these machines that still make 1 lb. This is almost exclusively related to genetics. expect no more than 7-8 ounces for example with any true kush strain.
If you do the math, and realistically calculate a pound harvest (which u probably wont get on your first time), it'll take av ery long time for this box to pay itself off if you calculate running costs. People claim thix bos pays itself off in the first run, and I seriously doubt that. I'm in BC and AAA goes for 3 grand an elbow or less, so, this is not a profit machine. However if you're a medical grower and you're looking for something easier than a normal self made hydro setup, this machine might be for you.
Consider a few things before you buy:
1). you'll need an air conditioner, period.
2). you might want toconsider installing another air pump and using an extra 4 stones. I got root rot consistently until i did this, even with hydrox, benifical bacterias, etc.
3). The box is loud, its bright, and it stinks. The carbon filter does only about 50 percent of the required work, and a can filter is a must in my view if you want 100 percent safety. The buzzing is quite noticeable even in the other room (airpump), and there are small holes all over the machine. It is by no means air-tight in this regard, trust me. I've heard people saying you could put a tablecloth over it and your mother wouldnt know it was in the room. YA EFFIN RIGHT BUDDY!!!! Maybe if your grandmother is Hellen Keller.
I seriously recommend u buy it used and get the help you need on the forums. It's just not worth it new guys, take it from someone whos been there.