Ok, update time...
I've managed to get hold of a fully working 4400 for about $39.00/£25.00. The shipping costs are a killer, but at least I was able to get what I wanted. As it goes I did find an 8000 but the seller wouldn't ship beyond the US, ah well - good outcome on the whole. Thanks again for the advice and I look forward to posting details of my projects very soon.
Jay