FYI, I spent that healthy price tag about 7 years ago. Ironically, it was about the same price then. (Aquamist I is the one I use). It has paid for itself time and time again.
Since then, I have built my own systems. Pretty much everything from the rubbermaid tubs to pvc systems. Of course these were home made not the nice fancy ones u can buy.
I have common issues with all of them over time. But that is to be expected. (i.e. pumps fail over time, misters clog or wear out, etc)
That being said. There are things I love about it, some things not so much.
Things I love (not in any order):
1. It has an outlet (with a valve and a cover that fits a garden hose, so you can use the pump to drain the system.
2. The tub is made from a sturdy (black) plastic with a recessed area that the pump rests in (if u use the stock pump).
notes:
a. at the time the pump finally failed, I needed one fast so I had to get one at Lowes. Also at the time prices were significantly cheaper. However, I just looked at the Aquamist site and the prices are now comparable.
b. I had the tub spring a leak once. However, it was probably my fault as I am not the most careful person (especially under the influence of my medicine
). This was easily remedied by using a little marine sealant. But I am sure any non toxic sealant like aquariam sealant would work just fine. It just happened to be all I had at the time.
3. It has a low profile. It sits low to the floor and has its own pvc stand that the tub sits in. The tub can be removed from the stand just by lifting it out.
4. It has interchangeable tops. Two tops sit on top of the unit. You can mix and match for your needs.
5. I am still using it after all these years. Very versatile. I have used it for cloning, vegging, flowering.
6. I like the approx. 2 X 4 footprint.
I am sure there are a lot more, but you get the picture.
On the other end it also has its cons:
1. Due to the fact that it is not as deep as say a rubbermaid, you have to watch your roots closer so the dont clog the pump. But that is true to all units that dont have a seperate resevoir.
2. The tops don't seal so you will most likely have a little overspray. (I solve this by using that black styrafoam type stuff used to insulate pipes I think. Cheap at Lowes. Kinda looks like one of those floaty noodle things people use at the water. Anyway, It is already hollow and scored, so it is easy to cut down to size and split with a boxknife. then I slide it on the edges of the tub.
I can't think of much more to complain about it right now.
I have tried to be as honest as I can. But overall, I think that if you can afford it is well worth the investment. Like I said, It has paid for itself time and time again.
Here is a link to their homepage. (unfortunately you cant order online, you have to call or mail. I called and had great customer service)
http://www.aquamist.com