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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 sugarbrie

sugarbrie
3,854 posts
 
I always buy new phono cartridges. The stylus is usually a large amount of the price. The condition of a used stylus is a wild guess. Even a super honest seller may not be able to tell either.

If I buy used tube gear, I usually assume I'll have to replace the tubes immediately, unless there is a clear indication how old the tubes are and the seller has good feekback.
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