+1 for steakster summary. I have spent up to about $2k for an item on ebay and usually have no problems, they favor buyers. Their money back guarantee has worked 99% over the last 20 years. You cannot guarantee that the seller will be good at packing. Take a photo of all items when you receive them, unopened box and amount/type packing material used. I have even shot video of me opening a package of high dollar items, just to be safe. Some people do use a 100% feedback account from other family members or friends, so even that is no guarantee. I'm contemplating a +5k purchase on ebay in the near future. For me, audio experience is not a requirement. I would be leery of low # of feedback for sure.
thought on eBay?
I've bought and sold things on eBay, but never $$$ audio equipment. I have had good experiences with Audiogon and AudioMart but I'm cautious about eBay, if only because many sellers often have little history with audio gear. I'm looking at an item that will likely end up in the $4k range from a seller who doesn't accept returns and has almost no record of selling audio equipment but does have an extensive and excellent record of buying and selling other things.
1) In general, would you guys spend many thousands of dollars on eBay if there are no red flags--or do you say "never eBay" for big purchases?
2) Can anyone explain the reality of eBay's policies? I can see the "money back guarantee" if the item arrives "broken, damaged, or faulty." But I've also heard plenty of horror stories out here about companies that offer similar guarantees in theory but are awful to deal with in reality. I'll add that sometimes "faulty" for stereo gear can be a vast grey area.
So, bottom line: would you make a big audio purchase through eBay, especially from a seller with little visible audio experience?
1) In general, would you guys spend many thousands of dollars on eBay if there are no red flags--or do you say "never eBay" for big purchases?
2) Can anyone explain the reality of eBay's policies? I can see the "money back guarantee" if the item arrives "broken, damaged, or faulty." But I've also heard plenty of horror stories out here about companies that offer similar guarantees in theory but are awful to deal with in reality. I'll add that sometimes "faulty" for stereo gear can be a vast grey area.
So, bottom line: would you make a big audio purchase through eBay, especially from a seller with little visible audio experience?