I had the same questions as you do about these smokers. I ran across the A-1 smoker first, check out custompits.com on CL for $1950. While during research I saw the same type setup (pic) on on eBay for $900. Next I came across the set up again at hbtwelding.com, then came greasyhill.com. I called and talked to each of them, although if I remember correctly the $900 on was some type of closeout warehouse, I didn't trust that. Custom pits says they had issues with people posting their pics, so be wary of scams. Long story short, after reading threads and getting feedback from my brethren, I went with the Lang 48", she should be arriving in about 3 more weeks!!! I did notice in the pics that they made mods to the stack, but i live to far to buy without seeing them first. Bottom line, it's your money, you make the call.