I picked up an old unit (good brand name) at a repo auction a while back for next to nothing and it's been great...very relaxing, especially when it's -10f outside.
Anyway, what temp do you guys set yours at? I'm at 104F. And the alcohol thing, I've never noticed any increased effect. How long do you stay in? I've been know to go an entire NFL game but usually 2-3 hours tops. Technically that's way longer and hotter than they recommend and I'm wondering if there's any real risks involved.
I couldn't see spending the $8k-10k people spend new, but I am literally into this thing for a few hundred bucks and it's been the best money I've spend in a long time.
I also considered an outdoor wood-fired sauna but there's just no cheap route there. They are great though, especially with cold water shower over the benches!