Buying Used Equipment on the Internet

I'm looking back at years and years of buying "vintage" on line -- both tube and SS.. Sometimes I've received very defective equipment listed as "Works Fine". Sometimes I've received very stupidly packed equipment, broken (think McIntosh glass and loose vacuum tubes for starters)-- and wondered whether any thought went into the packing process. The feeling of receiving a dented box that rattles and clinks is painful and angering -- not a happy way to have a hobby. 

By the time I get the stuff repaired (transporting, waiting, PAYING), I've spent a good deal of money and time, and endured no small amount of agony. AND, "virgin" vintage equipment will about always benefit repair/restoration -- caps and tubes -- to name two candidates. More money and more time.

I've pretty much decided to buy vintage in post-repair condition from local shops or well-reviewed eStores (see below). But more than that, I come to think that new gear will be more convenient, more capable, and cost less when completely accounted. New tends to be reasonably auditionable.

If a person really wants to buy vintage on line, I'd agree that TMR is a reasonable starting point, as is Audio Classics, along with a number of the NY shops/salons and one or two in California. 

Totally agree, reviews & feedback pretty much always tells the story and speaks to the integrity of the seller. It's how I ultimately found the shops Colorado & Massachusetts - both respected with solid reputations. My $.02 

Feedback is important. So is involvement. If the seller has posted many times but buys infrequently, as I do, he could still be reliable.

I suggest talking to the seller. It's not foolproof, but it gives one more opportunity to see red flags.

As my system is mostly 2nd hand the topic caught me. I'm happy to see that the thread is nearly 100% positive/encouraging. I can't really add anything not already stated but I feel with proper precautions, buying used, which is a journey in itself, is a viable alternative and encourage you to explore it.  I generally think buyers/sellers of items for this hobby are mostly upstanding people.

I almost always buy new but if I see a used component that I am really interested in one of the caveats to moving forward is whether or not the original shipping box and interior packaging is available and request pictures of such.  I pass on those that don't regardless of how much the seller assures that he/she will package the item well.

One thing that I do when selling is to send the buyer pictures of the item powered on, powered off , being wrapped , the box and packaging , the item inserted in the box, box sealed  Also, I'll get another box to insert the original one in and take and send pictures of that before and after packaging.  I'm just mentioning this as something aamiransari you can consider requesting to get some comfort from a private individual sale.