Strange you should ask at this juncture. I saw an advert right here on the 'Gon for a Pass 0.2 preamp within driving distance and at good price. I waited a little too long and found out an offer had already been received on it. Too bad, so sad. A couple of days later, as things turn out, I found an ARC Ref 2 Mk. II on my side of the border, within a shorter driving distance, from a fellow I had dealt with before, at a good price and in great condition. I bought it and saved nearly $600. in taxes. So you see, there is always another bus! BTW, don't buy on the rebound, I always wanted the line stage I bought so "tout est bien qui finit bien".
missed buying opportunities
I just missed an Ebay deal on a Well Tempered turntable that I wish I would have bought, even though the auction ended at 4:00 A.M. and I couldn't stay awake that long! What's the one piece of gear you passed on that you regret the most?