General consensus on buying used eq.


First I like to thank everyone whois ever contributed in this forum. It has really lessen the learning curve in this complicated often times expensive hobby. Now that I know alot more and will be buying equiment to try out in my system I was wondering what in the general rules in buying certain equiment. Are there certain items that shouldn't be brought used? What other pitfall should I be aware of when buying used equiment? Thanks guys.
daimbert
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All good advice. However, just so you know that it can be done if you're careful. I've bought/sold/shipped five TTs, several 100+ lbs. amps, preamps, phono stages, etc. with no problems.

One thing I will never do is purchase a used phono cartridge unless it was from someone I knew very well.
I agree with the comments regarding avoiding phono cartidges and equipment from defunct companies ( I have a Sonics Frontier Line 2 which has a bad i/c - my local guy is stumped, now I need to search out a healer).

Other than that I feel pretty good making a deal if the sellers feedback AND the feedback from the people leaving feedback checks out. Extra points for "good communication", "good packing", and "product as advertised".
Weim-boy-

The SF units are still supported by Anthem and by the original guys at www.partsconnexion.com

Kal
Also ask the seller to pack very well. as I sold cdp here and was damaged in shipping from Baton Rouge to California, via UPS. The buyer had to send it back and I put in a $500 claim to UPS, 4 months ago. It may take another 2 to 3 months, as Katrina and Rita has placed overloads on claim dept of UPS. Thats 6 months of waiting. Hopefully you do not have to go through that if you pack well. Do not use pop corn, go to Lowes and buy some styrofoam, and BOUBLE BOX EVERYTHING.....
Disagree with Liz about original box and manual being of importance. However through emails you will get an idea of the seller's sincerity on the condition /age/use of the unit.

Paul
Baton Rouge

btw my cdp was on the second floor with 8 feet of flood water on the first floor. The unit was in the house for 1 week, but windows were open, so no humidity buildup issues. Agree with Liz, be careful on buying from the southern US area.