Better for Separates Newbie: Rotel or Adcom?

ivyinvestor...sorry...i was being sarcastic about the bose...it is a long running joke here on the gon...I was not trying to imply that "you should do this because most folks do this"...you flat out stated that you didn't want to buy someone elses used "junk". What would you rather have break after 5 years?...a receiver bought new and is now out of warranty...or a 5 year old bryston with 15 years of warranty left. Do whatever you think is appropriate for your case. I feel that Chris (the kid) gives good advice also...he has even listed local shops for you to hear a few different components...whatever you get...make sure that it is your ears that like it...and if you can bring it home for a demo...even better...happy hunting

and no..i don't work for bryston...i used to own one...now have an electrocompaniet...and in a few months...will try something completely different.

Ahhh, Trust. Funny thing. You can trust me! Let me sell you something! I'm sure any number of individuals I've paid handsomely will now come online to support my contention that Audiogon is a reputable site, and the vast majority of transactions are conducted flawlessly. (hint, hint, come on boys & girls, now's the time- I'm calling in my favors!)
Honestly, Agon has built up my trust in the human race. I'm always leery of deals with unknowns. Always. Do enough deals, and sure, you'll get one that's not wonderful. But, MAN, you have a wonderful world of audiophiles here. Good people who love their equipment (hopefully not worshipping it) and sell to upgrade, not because of defect. This website is a gold mine!
You've got to lose your fear of unknown audiophiliacs! (sounds bad) I was very nervous, anxious the first few deals I did - leery. But the good people of Audiogon proved themselves worthy.
If you're suspicious, check the seller's feedback. Also, take Agon's suggestion and speak to them personally by phone prior to doing a deal. Ask all the questions you want, ie. was the unit ever repaired, etc. make sure the unit is insured for the amount it cost, etc. A few precautions and you eliminate 90% of bad possibilities.
yes, you can buy new to avoid ever being taken advantage of, but in the long run, it'll cost you.
I suggest you try small first; do one deal for a relatively small item, like a power cord or interconnects. Find out the system works. (I feel like I'm counseling here..)
Oh, yes, and my consultant's fee for whatever you buy on Audigon is 6%. ;)

We all get screwed every once in a while, but overall, I have never met more honest people than in the Audiophile circles. I have a business and I buy used equipment all the time. 95% of the time you get a great deal at a great price. The other 5% is life. So focus on quality well made gear with transferable warrenties and strong companies so you can build up your trust on the site. If a guy has sold 152 items on Audiogon without a single problem, I bet you can trust him more that the sales rep that has worked in six audio-visual stores in the last three years.

Bryanhod: Point well taken. Thanks for your comments.

And thanks to everyone for their comments! ;)

Rotel (2nd) !