I agree, you gotta see it running. We just got our first tub in early June. We had been looking at new but other (meaning more necessary) home expenes crept up so we took to Kijii and found a 3.5 year old tub that was the same brand and model # that we wanted - Beachcomber 578 Hybrid.
For us it worked out very well as the dealer where the tub was purchased is very close to our home and the original owner maintained it according to the store's recommendations. We also have an inground pool and I deal with the same store. Anyhow, for us it worked out and I know I have support close by if needed, plus the info on the forum.