This is a costly hobby. Purchase a new component at list price or close, then determine you don't like it and want to resell ? Good luck as you will lose 25-40% of your purchase price. Find the same component used, and then have to resell, you will likely recoup what you spent or lose just a little bit. This my purchases are used or demo with warranty.
Most recent purchases have been 2prs of used speakers. A demo with warranty preamp. A fully restored vintage integrated amp. Various used vintage pieces for restoration and use, or resale. I am a patient buyer and will wait for a deal at my price. I find something of interest, then submit an offer. If the seller declines, I move on.
I made a deal with my wife a long time ago. She noticed that I was starting to accumulate equipment, and she casually asked if ever sold anything. At the time I didn't. We made a deal, I could buy whatever I wanted, as long as the cost did not come from our budget, meaning that my pursuit of this hobby had to be cost sustaining. At that point, I began to buy and sell used equipment. For a few years in the late 90's, I actually made a market in Dyna ST-70 amps....I had a near constant inventory of about 6-10 amps at any one time !
Most of us like looking and reading about equipment that is more expensive than what we can afford. Buying used allows one to purchase what was once TOTL and Expensive, but at a much more affordable price. My system includes several components that were once very High End, but are now "classic" and were purchased for what most would consider pocket change. If I had to replace everything with new equipment, I would likely have to pay $30k or more. OTOH, I purchased everything used or demo for great prices, and if I had to suddenly liquidate everything, I would likely make a profit. Which is preferable ?
I realize I may strike some as a "price of everything, value of nothing person". But again this is an expensive hobby, and if I can manage the costs associated with enjoyment of this hobby, so much the better.
