Original Box VS No Box...does it matter?


I purchased an older CD player off of Audiogon to use as a transport. The ad said it had the original box and remote. When I called about the unit, I was told it was in near mint shape. However, when it arrived it was not in the original box and did not have a remote. The unit worked but looked like it had never been cleaned. The drawer also was stuck. They did find the remote but said they had lost the box.
I place a higher value on a unit with the original box -- I always feel like the unit was probably taken better care of and it does make for better shipping. The owner of the store said the only reason people worry about the box is for shipping. He also said they packed it as well as if it had been the original box (however, it was not double boxed).
Bottom line after three weeks the unit has malfunctioned 50% to 75% of the time and will not read the disc. Am I way off base about being upset about the false advertising (original box)? Thanks for your input.
patriot

Showing 1 response by moto_man

I agree with the other posts about dishonesty in advertising the product. However, I will note from my own personal experience that although I take fastidious care of my equipment, I have none of the original boxes on my older (70's- '96) equipment for a very simple reason. Back then, the boxes took up too much space and because most if not all sales were made locally (before eBay and the internet) there was no need to worry about shipping. Now, selling on the 'net is a standard thing and saving the boxes is the only way to go. Bottom line -- get a feel for the seller by telephone, not just email.