I'm a supporter of "walk before you run" with a pellet grill. Seems to a ton of Treager knockoffs showing up after patents expired. Make sure that this style of BBQ is for you before going high end. Yes, some have reported controller issues, but could be easily corrected with a basic Ortech controller for $72.
I'm going on 10 years on an old Traeger 070, replaced a few hot rods and a burn pot, that I consider normal wear for a entry level pit.
I never had a flameout with the original controller, but had problems getting over 350 at times. Temp swings + or minus 20 are ok with me. The Ortech will at least get me close enough to 400 for my wings and legs!
I follow a few forums on pellet cookers and like Smoke, I will probably get a Mak this year. You never see them for sale used, except for Sparkys that I should have taken the 2 hour drive for.
Some of my friends have enjoyed my BBQ have purchased Traeger JR's at Costco's roadshows with the 3 position controller and are turning out some good Q. Some have realized that pellet cooking is not for them, but most have upgraded with minimal loss selling on Craigslist.