A bad situation


I'm looking for opinions as to how to resolve a situation that arose recently. I sold a preamp to a gentleman here on Audiogon for $150. From what I can tell he wanted to use the preamp as an inexpensive phono section. He sent me a money order and I in turn sent off the preamp via UPS insured, packaged up with plenty of bubble wrap so (in theory) it wouldn't get damaged. The preamp arrives, but, the selector switch is broken and evidently the switch is an oddball component that cannot be sourced. I know the preamp was working fine before I shipped it, I sure wouldn't sell a piece of broken equipment, not even for a $150. What's the equitable thing to do in this situation? Make a claim with UPS? Pay a tech to hardwire the premap, bypassing the selector switch? Refund his money and throw the thing away? I know, it's only $150 but at the same time there really ought to be a code of ethics we all try to follow. I understand the buyers disappointment and he may even feel like he's been screwed, I want to make this right. Any and all opinions are welcome. Thanks, Jeff
jeffloistarca
I would love to hear what "cornfedboy" has to say about this. I always respect his opinion in these matters.
Also no matter what shipping service you use, be a smart seller and double box even if using original packing materials. You can get extremely strong boxes at you local U-Haul or any moving company. I bought some items in the past here and it was a miracle it arrived undamaged, packaging was a joke! Since you the seller are obligated to deliver product as advertised, spend a couple dollars on good packaging........can save you a lot later!
Hi all
I'm the guy that bought the pre-amp.
Through this entire unfortunate incident Jeff has been the
best!! Prompt communications throughout the whole thing,
timely resolve of the situation.
If you have the chance to buy anything from Jeff,
feel secure in knowing your dealing with one of the good guys.
Hey, Jeff, it looks like you really did *make the best of a bad situation*.

It was interesting to see the situation play out and even get closure with the buyer.
Unique thread and worthy of a *conversation*
thanks
Thanks Steve, appreciate the kind words. Oh, your check will be going out tomorrow. ATB, Jeff