Buying used when you should have bought new...


Some time ago I bought an item off Audiogon. I personally picked up the item. The price was right and the item was as described. Deal done. No problems with the seller.

The item lasted a few months before it started to act up. It needed repair. It had no warranty so I searched for a retail dealer to get the item fixed. I found a dealer, but they refused to service the item because it was not purchased through them. Ok, I searched for a repair shop which was tough, but I found one of high reputation that knew what they were doing.

I picked up the item today and it sounds great.

However, after what I paid the seller and then what I paid for repair, I could have almost purchased the item new for a couple more bucks.

What items, if any, should be bought new, if possible, and what items can be bought used to be safe? Is there a guideline of some kind?
matchstikman

Showing 1 response by herman

A dealer who only services what they sell is a jerk and a poor business person. Does he think you will return? If the dealer would not assist you then you should contact the manufacturer. You might not have a warranty but they are obligated to service what they sell.

Used stuff generally sells for 1/2 retail. Buying used is a bit of a crap shoot, and I doubt I would spend $500 for a used item that retails at $1,000 when I could probably buy it new for closer to $800, but once you get into the higher end the savings are significant. I got my speakers used for $10K and a new pair would be over $20K with sales tax. I stretched to pay what I did. Retail would have been impossible.

I agree with most of the above. Buy used stuff that is relatively new. Buy new cartridges and factor a tube replacement into the price of a used piece. Don't buy old digital players, motors and mechanisms wear out. Be careful with old analog, motors and bearing last a long time but could worn. Paying retail for cables is insane. Even though I wouldn't want any, SS stuff is a pretty safe bet.

Even if this one piece was not the bargain you had hoped for, in the long run if you are careful you will come out waaaaaaaaaay ahead buying used.