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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
zlone
657 posts
 

I posted a similar question a few months back and received good advice. I ended up buying some used speakers from TMR and the results were very good. You can lower your risk by purchasing only from dealers or Audiogon type entities as opposed to individuals. 

jbs
92 posts
 

I have had great experience buying used and usually pretty large speakers. I only look at items within my driving range as shipping is simply risky. I always check sellers feedback and listen/inspect on site. Pretty straightforward for me at least.

toyman
42 posts
 

I buy used from The Music Room tmraudio . com. You can return them.

Vandersteen Treo CT and Moon 700i

No issues.

 

Mike

deep_333
1,373 posts
 

It depends on the price bracket.

If it is high end 50k or above. I will most definitely buy used, i.e at cut even prices for when I sell it. 

I used to be associated with private listservs (trustworthy guys) where guys just rotate gear in that manner. Unfortunately, when I moved from the coast to a less high end-ish part of the country, it became less practical.

1971gto455ho's avatar
1971gto455ho
482 posts
 

Used is the way to go, let someone else pay the inflated and or kerbside warranty prices. Have many plywood on pallet large heavy successful shipments under my belt. Pick up, pack, crate, ensured, by a local credited company is the way to go. Largest for me was a successful 4000 mile IRS Beta shipment. Of course shipping today like everything else…a cash grab. But I’d rather that to paying 10,000 for crappy speakers only to see the 50% devaluation in a year. 
 

Cheers 

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