2. misc-audio
  3. 174534-102527

Buyer Dispute

I would like to have some opinions of a remedy for this issue:

I purchased a pair of B&W 804D3 loudspeakers through Audiogon in August 2021. They were shipped in original containers by freight. The boxes arrived damaged with some holes in the boxes, but no damage to the speakers accept for one very small spot, which could be repaired with a drop of stain. However, neither tweeter was functioning. A multimeter revealed an open circuit across both voice coils. The seller said that they worked before shipping but offered to send me replacement tweeters under the previous owner' warranty which I agreed to. However, and here is the rub; Because of supply chain issues, Bowers and Wilkins did not, and still does not have the tweeters in stock. I have been waiting 6 months for the seller to provide the replacements from B&W, but they continue to be out of stock. In short, I paid nearly $7,000 in August 2021 for speakers that I still cannot listen to.

Any opinion on a path to resolution?

 

kirbymydog

Showing 1 response by sokogear

sokogear
1,056 posts
 

Did he tell you they were covered by manufacturer's warranty? You can't expect him to be involved if some problem should arise in the future within the warranty period.

Some manufacturers only honor the warranty for the initial purchaser. They work with their dealers to resolve the problem. IMHO if something is DOA, you get a full refund and seller pays shipping both ways. Warranty or not. 

Personally, I would not buy something at this price level without some dealer involvement, even if he is selling it on consignment for someone, you have an assurance that everything is in working order. It's worth the extra 20% for the peace of mind. 

Better yet, if possible, buy things that are within driving distance so you can check them out and drive them home yourself. Also avoid any possible shipping damage.

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