Opinions / Info - AmigaOS 4.x Systems

[Kernel]

I'm curious if anyone knows of any FAQ's, or has any direct feedback, on the various incarnations of OS 4.x Amiga's that have come across to date.  I may be in the market for a used one or even an X-#### model and would like to know what I'm getting into ahead of time if possible.

For example, I seem to recall one motherboard has an audio issue due to a missing capacitor or resistor?

I'm particularly interested in info on the Sam440/460 models as I've seen them advertised more than others.

Thanks!

[Kernel]

I'm getting all the bits for my x1000 tomorrow .

Yeah... if I could talk the wife into spending 3K right now it would be a done deal, but sadly...

[Kernel]

Wow, good thread so far... seems like wide ranging opinions.

On the one hand, I want to update to an OS4 machine, but on the other I don't want to get a machine just to get one.

I would definitely want something where the hardware is not too low end that web browsing and video watching causes it to shudder.  That being the case, it sounds like I should hold off and save for an X-1000 rather than settle for a Sam based system...

[Kernel]

I would have suggested ACube's website for SAM systems, but I just checked and all motherboards and complete systems appear to be sold out completely!  I do hope they get more in soon.   Shows that there is still demand around.

So them being out may simply be temporary?  I was thinking that they dried up due to the X-1000 release... perhaps I should ask them if they plan on getting any back in.

[Kernel]

Keep an eye on Amibay for a 440 board, Kernel.  They used to come up for sale occasionally there for a fair price.

The 460 is a great machine, but not a terribly cost effective way to dip a toe into the OS4 scene, unfortunately.

So what would be a fair price for a used 440?

[Kernel]

This sale will give you an idea of going price....
 http://www.ebay.com/itm/161245447618?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1423.l2649
 
 I would love to buy this but a bit too rich for me... wonder how high it will go!

I was thinking of bidding on it but I did in fact email ACube and received a response that another batch is in production and scheduled for the May timeframe, so I'll wait it out.  I'm still working on bringing my A3K back to life anyhow.  Might just keep adding money to the pot and end up with an X-1000... who knows.

I already planted that seed with the wife and we all know it just takes a seed and eventually something comes to fruition ;-)

[Kernel]

Did ACube specifically state that more SAM 440EP Flex boards would be available? That would be great! I sold my SAM460 as it was quit quirky but I am really wanting to get a 800MHz SAM440 now. I already have another new Silverstone case to house the board. The SAM 440 ebay auction is up to $720..+ bucks now! Wow... who ever wins it may kick themselves in the butt later when more boards are available at a lesser cost.

Well, right now the cost is approx. what it would be for the same setup as bought new if my calculations are correct... here is the email excerpt (I asked about "Sam" in general not a specific model...):

Hello,

Shipping to USA is 55 euros for the board alone and 71 euros for an A1-500.
There is a new batch in production that will be ready for mid-May.

2014-03-15 4:30 GMT+01:00 :
message = Will ACube be getting any Sam boards back in stock soon or are they out permanently?

[Kernel]

The "A1-500" suggiest that they mean Sam460ex as that is the motherboard used in AmigaOne 500.

Good point - I've asked for clarification from them and will follow-up when I receive it.

[Kernel]

Good point - I've asked for clarification from them and will follow-up when I receive it.

Ok, they responded:

Hi,

Only Sam460 and A1-500.

Regards,

2014-03-16 17:19 GMT+01:00
 
To be clear, the “batch” – is this just Sam460ex motherboards and A1-500 systems or will there also be Sam440ep-Flex boards available?

[Kernel]

I'm a MOS user as well, bought and paid for, so don't indoctrinate me

Thread title is:  Opinions / Info - AmigaOS 4.x Systems

Isn't it?  I could have very well said "Well, a $200 used Mac will likely give you a more powerful Amiga NG experience", but such a comment would hardly be solicited in such a thread.  Considered rude even, perhaps.

If a guy is interested in a '57 Chevy and asking opinions and experiences with one, it'd be crass to blaze in and jack his thread with "c'mon man, buy a Vette, don't be stupid!".

Can't we all just get along? ;-)

You're right, that is the title and intent of my original post.  I don't mind the topic straying a bit here and there as long as it remains close to the spirit of the original... there is definitely a lot of useful information I've gained from it so far.

I'm not interested in MorphOS at this time but the discussion of video and what is/isn't supported and why is good info.