$800 for a LP-I?

[mowshowitz]

Hello, world. I am considering purchasing my first Moog product! I found a used Moog Stage I from the Guitar Center website that the dealer says has no cosmetic damage, comes with a gig bag, and works just fine. My questions are two:

[*] Is that a fair price? It strikes me as fair, but I'm obviously a little cagey about shelling out $800 + shipping unless I know for sure!
[*] With the firmware update, there isn't too much of a difference between the LP-I and LP-II...right? It's very important that the arpeggiator works for me, but from what I can tell it would with the update.

I REALLY appreciate this! I know you all get a fair amount of cost/worth-it questions, but obviously they're all a little different from each other.

[EMwhite]

Seems like the going rate. Important, VERY IMPORTANT that you can assess the condition of the encoder/knob; this is used to select presets, parameters, and on the older firmware, was used to advance 10 patches at a time via PUSH-and-turn. It wears out under heavy use. otherwise, you'll want to know if the keybed is even across the range.

I have a Tribute bought new and it's in very good shape but I've read about others with Stage editions having to have their encoder replaced because it becomes a bit loose feeling over time. otherwise, the fact that there are many buttons is actually a very good thing from a wear perspective; no switches to wear out or become dirty. And the pots are also well protected from dust, etc.

As far as differences between the Stage I and II, have a look at this thread: http://forum.moogmusic.com/viewtopic.php?f=7&t=10111 The readers digest version is that they are identical except for the USB port on the Stage II; some speak of diff between sound but I think more has to do with calibration than anything.

I know that they Tribute has some 'issues' with envelope generator button scanning which is NOT an issue at all. I don't know of any issue between the other two models.

Good luck with it, it's a great synth.

[Sir Nose]

Yes, the push-encoder should be check. Next, the filter POT and the LHC (wheel assembly).

But, overall a well built synth.

[mowshowitz]

Thank you both! I really appreciate the insight.