''Manuf. warranty '' with non-authorized vendor ?

"hmm wonder just how much audigon inventory is circulationg around that originated from unauthorized resellers?
I hope someone with more expertise in this area would say something, as most of this is speculation on my part."

I think most audiogoners know what they buy is used and doesn't include a warrenty. Also, most buy from individuals who are not resellers (authorized or otherwise) or dealers, but are just hobbiest like themselves.

Indeed, I believe if you are a dealer or re-seller you're suppose to mention that fact. Of course, if somebody has an ad on audiogon, and inply in their ad, that warrenties apply, and they are not an authorized dealer, then I WOULD check with the manufacturer, because in most cases the warrenty only apply to the orginal purchaser.

The problem with service on 'grey market' products exceeds getting manufacturer warranty service on new(er)stuff. Most realize that this isn't going to happen. Nor do many manufacturers allow transfer of warranty to a new buyer.

The major problem, IMHO, for the unwary buyer is getting service on grey market products from either the manufacturer or their designated repair facility at all, the avasilability of which is critical for some exotic components, where the repairer would need a schematic to do the work, without regard to who pays the bill. One of their reasons for doing this is to provide support for their dealer network and discourage grey market purchases.

FWIW, used buyers beware!

Sonicbeauty: I have come across a dealer selling gear that they claim have full manufacturer warranty on them. What if you find out from the MANUFACTURER that this dealer in question is not an authorized vendor? Would you buy anyways?

Let me begin by asking you for some quick advice first myself. Sometime ago I saw something on a shelf in in a some shop. Should I buy it? :-)

Seriously, this forum is about information exchange and just as we expect to receive help from the knowledge pool here, we should contribute to it by giving precise information: product, manufacturer name, dealer name, price offered. Needless to say, this will also bring in more precise and informed advice.

There is nothing wrong with buying from unauthorized dealers as long as you know what you are getting and it is priced accordingly. Good dealers will not lie about being authorized. Items that are "B stock" or "Refurbished" will be marked so and not offered as new A stock. The vendor will likely offer their own warranty. Should you trust it? Depends on the product and the vendor.

Some vendors have earned our trust: personally, I may hesitate with someone totally unknown, but I would consider a warranty from respected names like J&R, or my local Audio Consultants and Saturday Audio. However, I would also factor in that certain products may be easy to repair at a generic but competent shop (for these, even manufacturers may use a local shop for warranty work); others, especially new complex designs, are best shipped to the factory. That is why precise details are important.

If the vendor's warranty does not inspire confidence, then you should regard the item as not only "used" but also "as is", and buy only if it is priced accordingly.