I would only buy from the manufacturer who has certified it as good as new, or from a dealer I knew very well, at a store I can visit so they can do the set up. I was lucky to get a VDH MC One Special from a dealer I knew for 20+ years who had a customer trade it back to him shortly after he bought it for a VDH Frog. He doesn't try to make money on the trade-ins so I was able to get a tremendous deal (over 60% off list). The stylus lasted 9+ years with a very good amount of playing time. VSH styli last longer than most due to the design, created by AJ van den Hut himself.
Experience purchasing a used high-end cartridge
I am contemplating purchase of a used high-end cartridge with reportedly low hours. I found a thread from 2013 about this topic and am wondering if advances in online marketplaces have improved the experience or lowered the risk. I would like to hear from those who have purchased a used cartridge through Audiogon, US Audio Mart, or eBay within the last year. What was your experience? Would you do it again? Did you ever attempt to return the purchase and if so why and what happened? Listing of the seller would be greatly appreciated if willing to share.