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Computer problems – A non software problem
Hi All,
Does anyone have an idea?
I currently work on FCP Studio 2 with an older G5 (Dual 2.5 ghz w/ 7 GB of RAM) and no extras. I edit pretty straight forward video without special effects or high end graphics. I am looking to upgrade my computer because my G5 is showing signs of old age and slowing down (plus it doesn’t have the Intel chip). So, I’ve decided to get a newer one. I really don’t want or need to put $4000 -5000 into a new machine so I’m looking to used. A number of the people I consulted with have said I should go for the Mac Pro 8 Core. In all my research, this seems like a good machine but I don’ know. However, shopping for one has proven to be a small nightmare, well, a challenge anyway, for me. I’ve spent most of my time going back and forth between Craig’s list and eBay. There appears to be no shortage of Mac Pros 8 cores out there. Most seem to be in the $2000 to $2400 range depending on how they’re loaded. I’m not too concerned about RAM or hard drive size since that’s pretty cheap these days. My problem is that I’ve never bought a used computer before and am concerned about getting a problem computer with no recourse. I’ve just found one on Craigslist around $2K, sounds good and all, seller seems decent, etc., but I know once I walk out the door, it’s mine no matter how it runs (no lemon laws on computers). I’ve also found a few on eBay, good prices, high seller ratings but I’m skittish about that too.
So my questions are these for those of you who’ve had similar experiences:
1. Basic: Is the Mac Pro 8 core truly a work horse with a good history for running well? Is there a better basic machine?
2. Does anyone have experience buying a Mac computer on eBay or Craigslist without being scammed? How do you know? My thinking is you can’t.
3. What things can I do, questions I can ask, things I should look for, etc., when looking to buy a used computer and when you go to buy it?
4. Any other things I should consider before buying?
Any and all ideas would be appreciated and welcome. Otherwise I will need to think new. Yikes!
Thanks.
Mike Manor
Midnite Mouse Productions -
4 Replies
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Mike,
1. Basic: Is the Mac Pro 8 core truly a work horse with a good history for running well? Is there a better basic machine?
Yup, it’s great. It’s a Pro Machine though – an iMac is a ‘basic’ machine (although I know a number of people who cut on iMacs)2. Does anyone have experience buying a Mac computer on eBay or Craigslist without being scammed? How do you know? My thinking is you can’t.
Nope, there’s always a potential of being scammed. Perhaps, if this is your business/career, that these aren’t the best choices to buy reliable equipment.3. What things can I do, questions I can ask, things I should look for, etc., when looking to buy a used computer and when you go to buy it?
Someone who will give you a warranty, perhaps?4. Any other things I should consider before buying?
Yeah, don’t go this route.
———-Soapbox moment:
You’re trying to save $1k that is causing you how much of your time (and later worry)? It’s not worth the cost.
Here’s the way I see it:
Buy new – and have a year guarantee.
Buy refurbished from apple – save about 10-15%- but spend that on Applecare (3 year warranty)
Buy used from someone reputable – not ebay or craigslist; sure, you can get a deal on craigslist or ebay, but you’re rolling the dice. There are business that resell used macintoshes – like Powermx, Macofalltrades, usedmac, macattic that all will certify and give you at least a 30 day warranty.Best,
Jeff G
Apple Master Trainer | Avid Cert. Instructor DS/MC | Adobe Cert. Instructor
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Add Smalldog to that list of good used mac resellers. And maybe Shreve systems.
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Jeff,
Thanks for your input and feedback. It helped quite a bit. I’ve been checking out the sites you’ve recommended and will keep watching. Another person had mentioned the iMac idea as well and I might consider that as well. I had been in video production full time up until a few years ago when the economy forced me to fall back on an earlier career to get by. I still am producing but more part time now, at least until things get better. Anyway, thanks for your time and help.
Mike Manor
Midnite Mouse Productions -
Thanks Mark. I’ve checked those sites out and will continue watch for some Mac Pros
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