Oh wow. Freezer dryer is on the kids’ wish list. Is the new, smaller model also less expensive? They’re about $7,000.00 up here, last we checked.
LOL...yes....much less!!
$7K would be, well, out of the question.
Is there a research college in your area? If so, see what they do with the old equipment whenever they upgrade. Some of them sell it. The local university nearest me has freeze-dryers 2-3 times a year up for sale.