As you know, I bought my humi from them. I didn't buy an imperfect one however. They claim on their site the imperfections are minor scratches and the humis function correctly. If you don't mind a scratch or nick save the cash for cigars, if you do mind get an unflawed one.

I would get a digital hydro as a newbie. I don't use one anymore either, but it will help you in the beginning. And beads are the way to go, I use 70% beads in my cooler and 65 in my humi.