@tonyvdb
I already have an A3000 that is in near perfect shape that I bought for $100... it takes persistance and watching for the right opportunity, but I assure you, it can be done as I did it exactly one month ago.
It is going to cost me total $160 after the keyboard and mouse ;-)
@everyone
The project is small and for educational purposes and I both limited by my disposable income and my wife on what I may spend on a machine that is over 15 years old. I know you all feel the way you feel about your machines, heck I would not sell my A3000 for less than $200 myself because someone WILL pay that. Not I however... I have a source and I will keep it to myself for the time being because I need to spend $150 or less on a second machine (shipping included). After I obtain my second machine I will be glad to share my source.
Again, if I can not trade for two machines with my one A3000 then I have to buy a second machine but I am limited on the amount of money I physically have to spend. I think $300 is outrageous for any Amiga because I have found several for around $100. This is my opinion, it is backed by folks who may or may not be aware they could get more out of a machine, but one such person is interested in helping me because of the project's purpose. I would use my A3000 for the project IF I wasn't needing to run a BBS too.
Anyhow, the project is going to be a labor of love and likely beyond pittance donations, will make no money, so I am not inclined to spend a lot on it. The value of a piece of equipment is only set if people will pay the price and I can get it cheaper by NOT buying off Ebay so I will pursue those avenues... anyone would :-)
Thanks for the advice but never say "that can't be done" to someone who consistantly proves that it can be done ...
Just hoped to spend no additional money and trade someone a very nice A3000 for two A1200s for my project and for my everyday Amiga machine... since I have no takers (which is fine) I now know how I am going to have to proceed.
Everyone have a great day :-)
Obiviously, the answer is I am going to have to seek a second Amiga and hold onto my A3000... this will obviously be the less expensive route.