Buying used or sight unseen speakers a bad idea?

I have bought a lot of equeptment on here and on Audiomart before it, including 4 pairs of speakers and 2 subs that I can recall, probably more. I have never had a problem; can't guarentee that you would not but odds are in your favor if you deal with reputable stores or members with feedback. Speakers in my way of thinking are about the best thing to buy used; excellent deals can be had. I got my present speakers at less than 30 cents on the dollar and they look like new. Of course I have been doing it a long time but you should be able to get a speaker in very good condition for 50% of new cost. Since speakers are a very personal choice many buy ones they think they will like and then fall out of love with them quickly. I have actually seen unopened ones for sale where the buyer changed his mind before listening to them. I currently have 5 pairs of speakers that are around 20 years old and my total maintance was one pair of tweeters due to amp failure. Although there is a general upward trend in performance a very good older speaker will outpreform the vast majority of current speakers.

It's like buying anything used and sight unseen. You takes your chances. But if your gut causes you concern, go with it. There will be other deals. As far as age, that is all dependant on the manufacturer and how they have been cared for. Old speakers can be "mint as new" or a good bookend. Drivers and crossovers can be worn or have issues. Cabinets can be in poor condition. It really comes down to how good a description you have of the speaker and if you can gain a trust that the individual is forthcoming. I find here on AGon that the feedback is a good indicator on the latter.

I bought a new pair of Magnepan 1.7's without ever hearing them. I just went by the reviews of folks I respect.

No regrets.

Buying used "anything" is a risk...Audiogon is a very good place however to buy used equipment..Many Audiogon users are well known...Bottom line do your homework and buy from someone you either Know or who has good selling/buying feeback on Audiogon..This will not assure you of a perfect deal but will minimize soem of the risk.....