Who to trust when buying vintage ss ?

I agree with others who say that "vintage" is high risk.  Also, technology has progressed so far and so fast in the last decade (dacs, class d, computer designed speakers) I would not recommend a newby start 10-20 years behind the curve.

For budget try a raspberry streamer with an smsl su1 dac, an AIYIMA A07 amp, and any "bookshelf" size speaker that is easy to drive but not harsh or honky horn.

For simplified budget a NAD 3020 new version class d amp with any of the top 10 bookshelf size speakers.  For simple streamer one of the decent chinese streamers like wiim mini or audioengine.

For high end and simplicity from the get-go get one of the top powered monitors with any high end streamer.

There are some reputable online dealers that do very good refurbishing of vintage units- but at a very steep cost IMHO that is not as competitive as buying new. 

I went the vintage route and every piece I bought needed work. 

Buy from a local craigslist dealer and audition before you buy if vintage is a must- or buy from a local dealer that sells them with a return policy. 

The question is who do you trust, not should you buy vintage audio gear.  For the East Coast crowd Audio Classics in Ct jas sold vintage gear for many years.  The McIntosh MR78 is still considered one of the best tuners if people still listen to local FM radio.  Interestingly, the current prices (high) show substantial demand for refreshed vintage gear.

I have positive experience with Aural Hifi - Jeremy Irwin.

I have positive experience with Aural Hifi - Jeremy Irwin.