Well, I think $500 for an A4000 is a little crazy, even if that is the going price. I don't equate ebay prices with rational, real world flea market, garage sale or classified advert prices either. Ebay is always inflated. If price is no object to a person, then go shopping for Amiga stuff on eBay.
Even so, I wonder how many people REALLY pay the full asking price on ebay (i.e. how many of those auctions actually close at $500).
I sold an A3000 on ebay last year with all the latest chips and full ZIP RAM, and 040 and it didn't go for that much (I think it sold for between $200 and $300).
I have seen quite a few 4000's go for $500 in the years passed on ebay and other places.It depends what is in the machine. Market demand is what drives prices and i dont think 500 is crazy for a decent 4000.
Ebay is not always inflated, i have seen the same prices on amibay and elsewhere. I picked up a cyberstorm MK3 working for $300 just a year ago,which was a very good price off ebay.
Ebay is just like any form of trading, if you cant afford it don't buy it,if you can more power to you. there are deals to be had everywhere if you are patient and do your homework.
mech