What to ask when buying used speakers?


I have purchased used components in the past and I can do this with confidence their functionality is well defined and easily verified. I am starting to look for a new set of speakers and will consider buying used. Assuming that I am doing this over distance and will not be able to inspect or demo the speakers in person, what are some good questions to ask to determine the real state of the speakers? Any red flags? Can used speakers have incurred subtle damages or wear that will affect the sound? For the sake of discussion, let's assume that they are less than five years old so we can rule out decaying surrounds and old caps, etc.

zlone

Showing 2 responses by mofojo

I like and use @bigtwin ’s approach. Also no feedback or bad feedback ratings I won’t pursue at all. I’ve probably bought 15 used speaker pairs and never had an issue with a single one. Probably only half were shipped, the rest were driveable. 

@bigtwin ,

@mofojo  Whenever I've been the seller of speakers, they have always left my home like this.  Overkill?  $100 and a couple hours of my time.  Only happy buyers at the other end.  😁”

 

I’m lazy so anything large I have a real good pack and ship place close that is very reasonable. They also get heavy discounts from FedEx so the packing usually does not add all that much. I normally rate everything an 8 I’m selling if there is no noticeable imperfections. 7 if there is a couple SMALL things. Under that it’s Marketplace only listing and I want you to come see it before purchase. So far no one mad at me………. That I know of.