used when promised new

Unsound took the words right out of my keyboard. A neutral with a short explanation might suffice.

I'm with unsound on this. You might consider neutral feedback stating Cables arrived in excellent condition abut not new as promised. Or at least something of that nature. That way it provides the seller a heads up essentially telling him/her this is unacceptable as well as cautioning other potential buyers with out being harsh.

Although, I would assume any idiot would realize that new and used once or twice isn't the same. There are some people out there who lack the cognative ability to distinguish. A little case and point, How often do you see things listed as "new" (particulary on E-bay) and then later in the ad stating "only used once"? I beleive if you were to keep track the results would startle you.

Happy Listening,

Damon

I guess Jond would have no problem listing an item as new, but was really used! How would you feel if the shoe were on the other foot? If it's not NEW don't list it as such. Most of us are smart enough to know the difference. If this sort of deception is condoned it lets the whole website down and makes a joke out of the Audiogon grading system. That is my last word on this very dissappointing situation.

Warren, I wished you purchased my Golden Ref :-)
Did the ad or an email actually say they are new?

Another thought on universality (is that a word?) of definitions. There are many forms of the word "New" that can be easily understood by potential buyers if the seller is clear in his or her communication.

In simple terms, "New" (to me) means "New, unopened, and unused" or "New in box" like I would expect to find the item in a retail store or if I were to buy directly from the manufacturer. All shipping materials and literature should be included if the term "New" is used by the seller without any modification or explanation.

If the item has been opened only for inspection purposes, then the seller should describe the item is "New and unused, but opened only for inspection". If the seller does not have the original packaging, then he or she could add, "I don't have the original packaging". Tell it like it is!
If the item has been used in any way, shape, or form (even if for a 5 minute test) then the seller should describe it as "As new" or "New demo" or whatever phrase best describes the reality. Audiogon ads are not priced per word!