Buying Used Colorimeter

[kitjv]

Having decided to buy an Eye One Display 2 colorimeter, I am curious if anyone has purchased one used on eBay or elsewhere. Although paying 1/3 of the price of a new unit is attractive, I tend to be somewhat skeptical.

Thanks for your input.

[drg]

I would be skeptical too if for no reason other than why they were selling it cheap.

One possible problem is that the 'version' they have won't work with a newer software release such as Windows 7 or an upgrade - new driver for some other program that interferes with its correct operation. This should be a newer model and not a problem??

There's always the possibility that it doesn't quite work too. The color reading head really shouldn't wear out but may need recalibration. The tools to do that aren't really included in the package for most of these in the mid to lower price range. Missing parts, software, damaged cable, etc. could be other problems to inquire about.

The Eye One also comes in a 'light' version known as LT that is some cheaper and the software isn't as fully featured and the colorimeter is configured a bit differently. If the counter weight or suction cups are missing it is next to impossible to keep it steady enough to work. The LT is nice as it runs off a USB port. The non-LT version has really better software for a wider range of possibilities. The LT version as I recall has one option selection for known models of monitors/laptop/netbooks that is easy, but when you get away from the presets it isn't as good.

X-Rite makes very good products and I've used several variations. If calibration is important, particularly between two or more screens the X-Rite products are at the head of the class.