Upgrading cartridge used or new?

Mountainsong, just like every other question in this hobby, or even in life, you will never get a clear cut consensus answer. Too many varied experiences. It's a gamble, like with most things in life, the question is, is it worth the risk to you? Others can say whether or not the risk is worthwhile to them, but only you can determine if the risk is worthwhile to you.

Buying used is a higher risk, higher reward alternative to buying new. As with any investment, some will love the high risk, high reward option, while others will not. It all comes down to one question: Do you feel lucky? Well do ya punk?

LOL! Sorry for channeling my inner Clint Eastwood.

Hey, buying is a risk. I just bought some used speaker cables that arrived DOA. I've also had new gear have problems too, though usually there is a warranty with new. That's life in the big city.

I've taken the risk 5 times now on used cartridges here on Audiogon, over the past 3 years -- Benz's and Koetsus; not cheap endeavors. Also bought a few used from local friends. And bought a couple new from an authorized dealer. All turned out to be extremely nice cartridges! And of course I've sold some of my used cartridges, that I know for a fact were very very nice. I love trying cartridges! They have more impact on system sound than any other component besides speakers, and they're a hell of a lot easier to ship & install (I'm not into small speakers). I wouldn't have done this experimentation if my only option were to pay a dealer the new-cartridge prices.

Most audigon sellers/buyers are honest, and I've been banking on that. You do have to mentally run though the scenario of: "what if I get nothing in return for this purchase". If you're not able to deal with that possibility, then don't buy used. If you want to try a number of cartridges in your system over time, then clearly the used route should work out heavily to your favor.

01-22-13: Swampwalker
Steve- Bummer. Have you thought about posting a dispute, which would reveal the name of the other party to the public?
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I really don`t know if that would be appropriate. I became aware of the cartridge here in the Analog Forum of Audiogon due to another members mention of it being listed for sale over on the AA site. Even though, as I mentioned, he does market his wares here routinely I`m not sure that would be the right move.
That`s got me wondering now, Why he didn`t post it up for sale here ?? Could it be that Audiogon members are too discerning to pull off a stunt like that !? and risk damaging his FEED BACK RATING ??

His name and business may come to light in some fashion or another,,but I`m giving him ample time to get back to me as I`m sure he`s watching how this plays out.
Who knows.

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01-22-13: Mountainsong
Steve I started this thread with no idea it will turn in such debate about cartridge purchasing strategies and experiences.
You have made lots of contribution,
Thanks
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Thank you for a timely platform to voice an opinion on the matter !
This forum is my 'go to' for anything AUDIO I`m generally a passive observer content to sit on the sidelines reading and learning..but this is one of those rare times that I`ve said anything.

The thread on AA has slowly drifted off the main page but for anyone here want`s to see what a mess I was sold, just scan along in the VINYL section and look for ..."Should I Be Concerned About This Cartridge ???"

Used cartridge good luck Dude!!

When I started this audio hobby years ago, I tried many low end cartridges just to get different flavors. Then the cartridge trade-in programs offered by many brands really helped me.

I would trade in my old one for the new one that I want to try. Once I find the brand that I like, I stick with that brand. When higher end models come out from that brand, I would trade up again. That way you save some money along the way and you get brand new cartridges. Additionally, your system has been tuned to the house sound of that brand. You are then assured that the new cartridge will fit your system sonically.

Of course, buying used is cheaper, but I don't like to take the risk. That said, I did sell used cartridges in the past and I have been honest to the buyers.

Buying used from a friend will be a good option as it is less risky. I agree that most Audiogon members are honest. I would also say that owners of very high end cartridges are very careful because who would want to ruin their $10k cartridges and end up with lower resale value. So buying used high end cartridges might not be as risky as you think.

I don't buy used cartridge especially if I want to keep the cartridge for quite some time. You really don't know the remaining life of a used cartridge, let alone a broken one.