Audiogon Seller Communication

I had an experience ~15 years ago with a cable builder who promised me five times over 6+ months my cable was "going out tomorrow". He always had an excuse for the delay. 

Finally, I filed a small claims lawsuit and he was served by the local sheriff. The following week I had the cable.

I had a similar experience with a long time cable manufacturer. When I inquired about making me a custom umbilical cord for my Pass XP-22 I got an instant response. I sent him the money to start the process, and then he went dark. He went way past his approximate shipping date. I sent him several emails with no response. Finally I contacted Paypal and they reimbursed my money.

About 2 weeks later the cord shows up at my door. He then sent me a friendly email asking me to resend him payment. I did and was ultimately happy with my purchase.

The company is Revelation Audio Labs. With that said...He is a one man show. He makes fantastic cables/power cords. I think he's older and not the greatest communicator. I also think he is an honest man, and does live up to his word....but he is horrible at returning emails. I pride myself on being a good communicator, so its hard for me to understand why some people just suck at it.

I mentioned the company because I do think they make excellent cables/cords. I do think he's honest, and wouldn't rip you off. However, he's kind of famous for not following up with inquiries from customers.

I would purchase from him again, but at least I would know that this goes with the territory.

He (Revelation Audio Labs) made a great umbilical cord for me, and he is indeed a true gentleman. Still, going dark is never a good thing.

Maybe Agon should institute a time limit for shipping. If seller misses it, buyer has option to cancel and get refund.

That 's not only on audiogon, it can happen anywhere as mentioned by others here. Even respectable audio companies. It happened to me. The real red flag to me, is as soon as you post your experience, the seller holds a long conversation with you. Regardless of the reasons for the original lack of communication, this is absolutely not cool. I would ask for a refund.