Dragon, RX-505 or DR-2 ?

best-groove, Most Ferrari owners use their cars only a few weekends per month, if that often.  Did you see a high mileage used Ferrari?  So, perhaps the analogy is not apt.

mmmm I am of the opinion that things should be used not left to take the muffins. lol

Buying the RX-505 was a good choice, especially at that price. If you decide that cassettes are your thing, you can always move up to a Dragon if you need what it offers. I’m betting you will be happy with your purchase. When I bought my RX-505, the seller had a Dragon for sale but it was almost twice the price and didn’t sound as clear as the RX-505. I believe it was out of alignment. I have never regretted my decision, and the RX-505 is still in my collection.

Each Dragon that i’ve seen before sold for over $1.5k
I love cassettes (good memories of the 90s). I wish to find the Nac deck, but i think $1.5k + service is  too much for a cassettes heaven.

AKAI GX-95 MK II (TOTL) is another excellent choice w/ both level and bias calibration, and is usually cheaper and equals RX-505 in SQ. I have both and I highly recommend them.