Does anyone answer e-mail? Hello?

I have been using the A-gon site for a little over a year and although not 100%, most of my emails get answered. I also take the time to answer all emails & have started some ongoing conversations as a result.

My experiences on ebay in the past 2 1/2 years have ranged from being totally ignored to dealing with people who don't have a clue as to how a transaction is carried out. Of course I've had some great dealings but you never know what you're going to run across, either here or there.

If you stick around here for awhile you'll pick up some very good information as well as some great bargains on mostly well maintained gear. You will find most of the people are here for the same reason-a passion for audio. This includes dealers also. Do use some caution when making deals-but that is another topic. You can read through the Forum archives to find some related info.

Good luck!

Sometimes, I won't bother answering if the e-mail is just from a "tire kicker" [low baller...usually asking for 30%-40% off my asking price...and THEN asking me to pick up shipping AND COD charges!!! Usually, this is on a relatively inexpensive item ($200 to $500 where my asking price is already 50% off list!!!] Usually, the magic words, "I'm very interested in your..." are missing. Instead the e-mail is very short, like "Would you take $500 for your 2 meter Nordost Quattro-fil including shipping?" NOBODY wants to pay asking or even firm price, but hey, let's be realistic about trying to get a discount! I'm not implying that this refers to you; this is just a sore spot with me. Also, Jameswei makes a valid point about the holiday/C.E.S. show season making e-mails slow or lost. Don't be discouraged. I became a member about 6 months ago. My first two attempts at selling involved dealing with two "nut cases" and I almost gave up on Agon. Since then, I've had some minor frustrations, but all in all, this is a pretty comfortable home for us audio addicts! Happy Tunes!

Vdub- welcome aboard. I would say your success rate is way too low to be chance. I get a response to at least 75% of my offers, but it is true that lowball offers are often not answered. However, to give you an example, I saw a pair of cables I wanted to try this am, made an offer, it was accepted and I sent off a money order before noon. Now that's not standard, but its not totally outside my experience here either, over the last 3 years. E-bay is a real mixed bag; some fine transactions, but lots of folks are just trolling for a "bigger fool" who unwittingly pays WAY TOO MUCH for an item (have seen used speakers with some described damage selling for 75% of list!!!). hang in there buddy.

Vdub-First of all cool name(I am a fellow dubber;). I would say close to 95% of my emails get returned from audiogon, though I have sold some things and low ballers are just plain annoying-sure everyone wants a good deal, but I got 14 emails in 3 hours and 12 of them where as stated above asking for it dirt cheap with shipping included.

Fatparrot-Hey thats a low blow, Tire Kickers? come no now have a heart! I'll feed my parrot some crackers soaked in anti-freeze! j/k.

Take the time and have the courtesy to answer all.
Dont ignore what you percieve as a low ball.
Answer them back with what it will take.
If you dont want lowball offers list your price as firm and state it.
You never offer what someone is asking.If you do you have more money than sense.
Get off your high horse's.