Welp . . . I did a thing.
Music Direct had a “scratch and dent” Masterdeck + Ultragold cartridge for 29% off. I was interested but didn’t want the cartridge so let it go. Then, for July 4, they had a 0%/36-month financing promotion, which induced me to call their sales dept and ask whether I could have the cart removed/excluded and for photos of of the “scratches and dents.”
Turns out the only issue is a 1-inch scratch somewhere near/under the gimbal. I’m not even sure it will be visible from most angles, and certainly not from anywhere someone is sitting in my living room. In other words, it’s basically as good as new as far ans I’m concerned and comes w/ all normal warranties, and they’re double-checking it b4 shipping. They also agreed to pull the cartridge.
So I’ve got a Masterdeck (w/out cartridge) on the way for 29% off, payable over 36 months w no interest. There are almost no reviews of this new table online, so I’ll be a guinea pig, I guess. I have been very happy w the Ultradeck and, aside from the upgrade generally, am very attracted to the extremely easy adjustability of the Masterdeck.
I’ll be selling my Ultradeck and will list it here when I receive the new unit. PM me if you’re interested.