First time buyer-HOW?

If it's too good to be true-- it probably isn't. You have to have good luck and be prepared to spend some money for "fix-up" in the event you got that great deal which wasn't such a great after all. Get phone # and call. I can't imagine why a seller would refuse to give you their phone #. That would indicate a problem.

A reputable audio dealer can help. Where do you live? There must be someone on Audiogon near you who can help. Stay away from Circuit City or any chain store where they will sell you anything to pay their rent. A good dealer will put no pressure on you to buy something NOW! A good dealer will help you get what's good for you, not what's good for their wallet.

If you are talking about first time buying on Audiogon the others advise is good.

yeh i agree w/ the other guys totally---home e mail adresses and please get their home number and address and talk live before a transaction-- i havent met a bad penny yet!(cross fingers)-feel the person out on the phone (in caracter) if they seem dodgy dont do it!

What exactly, or in-exactly, are you planning to buy? When you say that this is your "first purchase" it's more than a little bit fuzzy. Advice regarding risk and precautions is a relative thang... depends on what you are buying and what you are spending. One size do not be fittin' all.