I'm a little perplexed/surprised by TMR and who sells to them.....


TMR has become a significant player in used high end gear. Their pitch is "we pay you top dollar hassle free for your used gear" . 

OK, what's their idea of top dollar? It's 25% to 30% of MSRP minus more $ for blemishes that lower value. I know. I called them. 

The same sellers who list their used gear for 30 or 40% under MSRP and refuse legitimate offers from qualified buyers with proven buying or selling history who offer 1/2 or so of retail are roundly ignored or even insulted. Weeks later the same item shows up at TMR at 50% of retail and you know TMR paid half of that for it. 

What makes sellers do such a crazy thing?

yesiam_a_pirate

I rarely post, just lurk, but I wanted to post in support of TMR.  I've bought a couple of things from them.  Both times made reasonable offers (ie. not low-ball), and they accepted both times.  Both pieces were received well boxed and the condIition was as described.

Their business model is THEIR business model, whether one thinks it's reasonable or not.

If you are a buyer, you have the choice of buying equipment "X" at whatever price (and you can make an offer that can be accepted or rejected).  As a seller, you have the choice of selling your equipment at the price they offer (and you can negotiate that as well).  If you're a consignor, you can accept or reject their terms.

Their model allows for buyers, sellers, and consignors to avoid the time, hassle, and potential exposure to scammers.  These days, the issue of scams is extremely pervasive, and is very high on the list FOR ME.  One can decide for themselves what level of safety and convenience is worth any 'loss,' or extra expense, and proceed accordingly.

I’m greatful for the feedback.  My goal for my post was to do some research on “price discovery”.  I have long held that most sellers hope and pray for the greater fool.  My suspicion, confirmed by the overwhelming response in favor of selling to TMR, is that used high-end gear is worth 1/3 or less of retail. 

 

I recently sent in a request for my 2 year old anthem mca-525 amp not being used in perfect condition low hours, the price they offered me was highway robbery, I sold it for 68% more on ebay than TMR offered me. They are in business to steal your equipment, turn around and mark it up almost double...

I have purchased several high end amps from TMR and must say they have a great sales program, 90 warranty, great packing, fast response, great communication, highly recommend to buy from, but not to sell to, unless your desperate for cash.

The best option for TMR is to trade for some of their better gear. You get a better bet deal that way than outright selling to them. They will work with you. And as someone has said, they will come down on prices when they bought low. And what’s best is their quality control, guarantee, and return policy. I “sold” them a player that was perfect for CD but would not play SACDs. They got it repaired for only $200 which was great for both of us. My only complaint was over a sales guy that took too long to get back to me and I missed out on  a turntable I wanted. But nevertheless I would use them again and recommend TMR.