Better for Separates Newbie: Rotel or Adcom?

Hello, all...

I realize what you are saying - especially Mr. Schroeder.

Although I have sold tons of equipment to upgrade, I have never bought anything used. Most respectfully, I've known far too many folks who have purchased used equipment only to later lament "purchasing someone else's junk" (not my quote).

And while I would love to think that everyone on this forum would only offer for sale to me gear that is as described, that will not statistically be the case. I hate to say that I don't trust any one of you, because I do *very much* respect your opinions and suggestions: this thread is evidence thereto! Please do not think otherwise.

I have to admit (and *please* excuse this contrived situation): if I were able to see the equipment functioning, demo it, try it with some of my media, & etc., I would be much more likely to bend my own rule and consider what you kind folks are suggesting - to either purchase already depreciated Rotel (to make sure that I want to enter this hobby) or some of the other kit you've referenced further up the price line.

However, purchasing from an unknown person in an unknown location who might or might not have a piece of functioning equipment and who might or might not package it carefully, with or without what he or she said would be included, without warranty, or with a reduced warranty is too much of a case against buying something that someone wants of themself to rid.

I realize that some folks might purchase kit and do not enjoy it, box it back up, and could sell it to me such that I'd have saved 30-40% compared to a retail sale. But, without being able to see the equipment in its functional state, why should I trust them?

I might consider purchasing used: but only if I can demo something. After all, for those of you have purchased used vehicles or audio kit, I bet you didn't do so without driving or hearing it!

To suggest that I, someone who is just entering this hobby, purchase something sight unseen - and, more importantly, unheard - is incomprehensible.

Thanks for you comments. I do appreciate hearing from folks regarding equipment

By the way, I live in NOVA (Arlington, VA), should anyone wish to sell something that has been mentioned here.

I umpteenth the bryston suggestion...get a B-60 integrated...it will run you less than a grand...and if you are worried about buying someone elses "junk"...fret not...Bryston has a 20 year transferrable warranty...furthermore...if we are unable to talk you out of your "must have new" shortlist...then we might as well add one more to it BOSE.

I've done a good number of transactions on Audiogon and have been very happy. The odds you'd be buying someone else's junk are remote. Most of us keep very good care of our gear. That and the fact that most of it is of very good quality make buying used an excellent idea. Heck, I just had a guy send me an amp before he received my money. The amp works and looks like brand new. I saved 2,000 over buying it new 3 years ago. Now ,just guessing, this piece is probably good for at least another 12-15 years. That was about my 28th transaction here and every time what I received was in as good or better than I'd expected. Maybe I'm just lucky.

Ellery911: You really believe that Rotel, Channel Islands, and Adcom are at the same level as Bose?

Do others concur? I've never before heard any of those brands so likened.

Additionally, Ellery, your intimation that if I don't purchase a Bryston I should just consider Bose is the kind of "you should do this because most folks do it" attitude that does not facilitate trust in the process *at all*.

Warnerwh: Your post was the kind of evidence for which I've searched. Several folks PM'd me with similar themese - but the greatest number of items anyone had purchased used was three components; two others had bought two items, and one bought one. Of those eight purchases 6 were satisfied with all aspects of the transaction, 1 was unhappy with his selection (but the product was fine), and 1 stated that the seller had misinformed him regarding the condition of a unit. Certainly these stats were not enough to really shed light on the situation. However, your nearly 30 purchases *does* make me feel much more comfortable: thank you VERY much for telling your side of the story!

Regardless of your opinions, I am very grateful to be able to read so many replies.