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

Showing 2 responses by clueless

clueless
763 posts
 
Ljgj is right about tubes but that is not limited to Audiogon. Lots of relabeling going on. Check carefully unless you buy from an established supplier.
clueless
763 posts
 
Kjg: Well, I are an attorney and in my state fraud requires an intent to mislead. If you do know about a flaw you cannot be charged w/ intentionally misleadin someone about it. In some instances, if there were representations that all was well with the item, it could be a breach of contract.

Most consumer laws apply only to commercial sellers and not private parties. Remember ... buyer beware. If all you have is phone conversations it makes it hard to prove that it was not an "as is" buy.

One thing I do on the web is I e-mail the seller with a few questions about the product. Basic stuff about its shape and performance, age, ect... I have several standard notes I use. That way, I have the response in writing. If a seller refuses to answer and will only talk on the phone I'm out of the transaction. This has killed one deal for me here at Agon and , indeed, I found that the product was a little fishy from another Agoner at a later date.

Sincerely, I remain
More to discover