2. misc-audio
  3. 1015084006

Audiogon Ethics

I have been an Audiogon member for a couple of years and am very fond of the idea that we are building a community of audiophiles based on trust and honesty. I recently saw a sales ad for a piece by a member who I sold an identical piece to a few months ago (I can't say it is my original piece but it would strike me as odd that someone would own two identical units). If the seller is indeed advertising the unit I initially sold him, he is misrepresenting the condition of the unit (e.g., implying that he purchased it new and that its age is less than it actually is). My question to everybody on this list is what, if anything, to do about this?

I am concerned about the implications of dishonesty for our community of audiophiles in general. I believe this question merits discussion among members. I look forward to your responses. Thanks.

Volker
drv
angela100
435 posts
 
It seems the first place to start is to simply ask the seller if it is the same. I haven't read anywhere in this thread that this has happened. All the guessing and assuming guilt - is wasted, negative energy, to me.
Just my 2 cents.... aj
tjs1956
5 posts
 
I strongly believe that the information contained in an individual's Audiogon ratings is critical in determining whether you want to do business with that individual. Over time, the rating should reflect the integrity of that individual which, to me, is the ultimate safeguard all of us have on this site.
msnloeth
57 posts
 
I don't sell anything here but I have made some purchases. I am very capable of investigating an item before I buy it. I don't really like the idea of other people trying to protect me or trying to police other people's ads. I don't think you should be concerned about what someone is selling unless you want to buy it. Everyone on this site should be an adult and able to handle their own transactions. If you sold the item it isn't yours anymore and really none of your concern.
unsound
7,329 posts
 
Perhaps we can all protect ourselves by posting serial numbers on all items listed for sale or auction? This would also monitor items that have mysteriously disappeared. In those cases where someone has had an item refurbished by the factory or other means, let them provide documentation.
sc53
720 posts
 
I agree w/those who say you can't be sure the guy doesn't have two, or even more, of the same units. I have met at least two guys on this site who constantly buy and sell stuff and make a little money in the switch. I'm sure they have owned the same piece twice or have had two of the same pieces at one time, some people really enjoy the experimenting w/new stuff and the bargaining and small profit-making they may be able to pull off. I myself have bought and sold quite a few pieces, large and small, over the last year, but have not made ANY money in the transfer, oh well. I haven't lost too much, and every piece was something I wanted to try.
More to discover