Mellotronists

Since 'trons seem to be a beast to track down (atleast using the
obvious avenues), how are people typically finding them nowadays?  Not
sure if anyone keeps stats on this kind of thing, but seems like ebay
results are infrequent and bidding wars.  Seems there could be some
other way than watching ebay for the next ten years (or shelling out
for a MkVI).  

Anyone had luck finding a 'tron using other methods?  Is there some
underground mellotron trading ring??

Side question - Is it a life-long depression to own an M400 when you
really want a MkII?  Since the latter seems utterly unattainable, I've
always wondered if it's a drag to "settle" for the (relatively
limited) M400.  How do you get your foxtrot fix?

guybrush