Timing on this topic and the comments are very helpful. I am in the market for a new set of speakers and definitely going the route of buying used. Its a plus to hear some of the suggestions that I have thought of, but there are quite a few new iideas brought up that I have not considered. I live in the S.E. and have no problem with driving my SUV on a journey that takes a day or so plus an overnight! Make it a destination and enjoy some of the local food and drink. I can reach GA, S.C., N.C., AL, & TN given these parameters. I look for a seller that has solid feedback in the past few years and returns email inquiries in a timely fashion. I don't overdo my questions and if the pictures are semi-professional along with a good narrative I move to the next step. Will definitely inspect the speakers when I arrive on site and will only buy a set with the original packaging.
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!