Is Audiogon worth it?

I've had one person who sold me bad goods (NAK tape deck) on A'gon and that was 2 years ago. He's gone as far as I know and I haven't followed up - maybe I should. There are also good people on eBAY but many more shysters there. My biggest gripe is the lowballers but what are you going to do - they are everywhere. I ignore them because most of them never send the check anyway or want me to send stuff their way which doesn't work for me.

Such naivity amongst even the most die-hard 'Gon'ers. As with anything, you do need to be careful when buying AND selling on this site. Everyone keeps mentioning that there are only "18" disputes. That's not exactly true. There are 18 PUBLIC disputes, but there are countless others where AudiogoN had adequate information to make a recommendation w/o posting the dispute in the forums.

I've been burned a number of times. Conversely, I've also met some tremendous people who share the same passion for music.

I've had the best luck with posting ads for a "local sale". This way, you get the best of both worlds. The great reach and resources of the AudiogoN and the extra peace of mind that you're dealing with somebody locally. It goes a long way in reducing the risk of mis-matched expectations, shipping damage...or worse.

Finally, I would agree that shipping large, heavy or ackward items such as speakers and tts is RISKY business. Local sale is the ONLY way to go with such items.

My .02

You can call it naivity, its obvious to me that each of us has had somewhat differant experiances in our transactions on and off the web which tend to influence where and how we feel comfortable dealing with people. Selling locally is great for those heavy large items which are hard to ship, does that mean its problem free? You might just have made a new "friend" who feels they can drop by anytime they have a problem or question about the piece you sold them! so much for that "peace of mind". And everyone knows it's impossible to have a problem if you buy from a reputable dealer! (yeah right). Bottom line is you have to be careful anyway you buy or sell. That said I find the majority of people on Audiogon are honest, love music, and are great to deal with. my .02 TG

Audiogon is definitly the way to go, I have done numerous transactions both buying and selling and have had nothing but positive experiences, plus made friends who share the same addiction as I do. Review the person's feedback and talk to them over the phone, that will give you a good idea who you are dealing with. I agree the "Viridian" above, I also live in Portland, Oregon and a few years ago tried to sell my high end gear through the local paper. You should see the bunch of clowns you get to deal with. Those who do show up want to give to half of your asking price. They are all out after the deal of a lifetime. So if you want to give your stuff away put it in the local paper. AudioGon is a great place to try equipment which you can't afford to buy new, if it doesn't work out resell it.

There is no doubt in my mind that Audiogon is best Internet site for audio transactions. I would go so far to say that Audiogon is the best commerce based Internet site that exists. After extensive research I have come to the conclusion that this is mainly due to the community that has been created by and for audiophiles. We share in a unique hobby. There are not many places for us to go on the Internet to share and transact. Audiogon is that place.

This bond differentiates Audiogon from commerce Internet websites that deal in many types of items. I have purchased audio components on other sites and did not have the same experience that I have had in my many transactions here. I have met new friends and actually met up with one of them at the Stereophile show last month.

That being said, this is not for everyone. I am a proud member of this community and am grateful for the opportunity to transact with others who share my audio passion. Yes, Audiogon is worth it.