Buying Used Equipment on the Internet

I've bought a lot of used equipment on ebay and only one bad experience. The seller just put the amp in a box without padding.... you know what happened. When you buy used equipment make sure you have a good tech near you because they will go bad much quicker than new. There was good advice from some above about checking the seller's rating and don't buy from someone who has their first posting (although I've done it and it worked out well). Now my best advice..... buy new!

save for overtly hacked accounts, substantial amounts of positive seller feedback on sites like audiogon or audiomart is very important... it speaks to the person doing the trading, their character, their level of attentiveness and care

then, to be totally sure, ask to speak to the person, get comfortable, if you still have some lingering doubts

ultimately, for buying all used, valuable items, it is important to get a good feel for the seller/prior owner, understand what kind of people they are

all this said, buying used gear is just well suited for some people -- for this minority of folks, dealers or direct sales is readily available

I'm looking back at years and years of buying "vintage" on line -- both tube and SS.. Sometimes I've received very defective equipment listed as "Works Fine". Sometimes I've received very stupidly packed equipment, broken (think McIntosh glass and loose vacuum tubes for starters)-- and wondered whether any thought went into the packing process. The feeling of receiving a dented box that rattles and clinks is painful and angering -- not a happy way to have a hobby. 

By the time I get the stuff repaired (transporting, waiting, PAYING), I've spent a good deal of money and time, and endured no small amount of agony. AND, "virgin" vintage equipment will about always benefit repair/restoration -- caps and tubes -- to name two candidates. More money and more time.

I've pretty much decided to buy vintage in post-repair condition from local shops or well-reviewed eStores (see below). But more than that, I come to think that new gear will be more convenient, more capable, and cost less when completely accounted. New tends to be reasonably auditionable.

If a person really wants to buy vintage on line, I'd agree that TMR is a reasonable starting point, as is Audio Classics, along with a number of the NY shops/salons and one or two in California. 

Totally agree, reviews & feedback pretty much always tells the story and speaks to the integrity of the seller. It's how I ultimately found the shops Colorado & Massachusetts - both respected with solid reputations. My $.02 

Feedback is important. So is involvement. If the seller has posted many times but buys infrequently, as I do, he could still be reliable.

I suggest talking to the seller. It's not foolproof, but it gives one more opportunity to see red flags.