Buying Used Speakers


Want to get the group's thoughts on buying used speakers.  The value proposition in many cases is compelling.  However, there is a pretty good element of risk as well, even from reputable Audiogon sellers.  What exactly does, "completely tested mean?"  Or "performs flawlessly?"  You don't in most cases get a warranty for starters and you're at the complete mercy of the adds and pics.  Some of the sellers are broker dealers (with stellar reputations), so do they even know how they were treated?  Prob not.   Let's face it - the vast majority of condition ratings are based on the cosmetics IMHO.  

Has anybody bought expensive speakers on AG or elsewhere?  What questions did you ask the seller to help ensure they're as sonically good as cosmetically?  Did you test them yourselves once you received them?  Any good lessons learned would be much appreciated as well.  I know for starters to get a complete  description of how they're going to ship them.  Thanks in advance!   

cubbiesman

Showing 1 response by coltrane1

Every speaker I’ve purchased the past 35 years has been used. Never had a problem and purchased much more expensive speakers than my budget could afford because I bought them used. I didn’t have $10k, what they sold for new, but I had 3k, and the seller ended up taking my ESL’s for an $1800 credit, so $1200 out of pocket for a $10k ESL was a no brainer. But no ESL I know of lasts 50 years! You’re lucky to get 20 years out of an ESL.

And word to the wise: I’d only ship speakers via ground freight.  Shipped and secured on their own pallet. Will cost you a bit more than FedEx or UPS, but worth the peace of mind not being destroyed in transit!