Better for Separates Newbie: Rotel or Adcom?

I second Bryston as the best used product out there. I would get a 4B-ST amp and BP20 preamp and you will be happy. This was my setup for years with no problems and great sound.

We all get screwed every once in a while, but overall, I have never met more honest people than in the Audiophile circles. I have a business and I buy used equipment all the time. 95% of the time you get a great deal at a great price. The other 5% is life. So focus on quality well made gear with transferable warrenties and strong companies so you can build up your trust on the site. If a guy has sold 152 items on Audiogon without a single problem, I bet you can trust him more that the sales rep that has worked in six audio-visual stores in the last three years.