Naah, even this new MAG12 could be yours for that kind of money, probably less than $300.00 delivered to your door. You can get the LAB12 for $200.00, including insured parcel post to New Zealand.But I definitely understand the issue of $$$bucks$$$. I'm impressed when a twenty-something fellow is as techno-savvy as you are. It's hard to plop down the cash for expensive hobby projects, and the good stuff always costs a lot. You can really see this in auto parts and sound equipment. So kudos to you for using your intelligence to make up for your budget crunch.