There is no way a L&L Universal is worth $400 , & certainly not $500. They're a lightweight brass shell, that deforms easily under tension. (I believe the Universal on ebay was touted as having a heavy brass shell. I don't believe they ever had a heavy shell). They have been selling for the past 2 decades for $150-175, but I noticed as of late that sellers are asking high prices, & occasionally hit that mark.

I've had about 4 of these snares, they are pretty, but fall very short as a quality player.

I talked to the seller again sunday and got this information,and I qutoe"I know Ernie Ball's widow and asked her if she knew anything about this drum. It came with an old Fender amp.Ernie's widow said "NOPE".. Yes, to many Grateful Dead concerts in her youth!!!!!.I told her to check out the 2 I saw on EbA.If she wants I could fix it up a bit,ie new head,reapir all lugs,clean inside and out. I will talk to her next month. V