New or used???

Bobgofury said: Figure that you will lose 50% value the day you pick something out new or used.

I disagree with the "used" part of this assertion. Buying used can be a very good way to get equipment. I know this from experience since I've bought quite a lot used in recent years. I just recently sold a high-end SACD player (which I bought used) for more than I paid for it 18 months ago. Also, my previous tubed preamp (bought used) was sold for only a very small loss compared to what I paid for it after having it for a couple of years. Your point about new equipment losing value the day you buy it is valid.

To the OP: buying used speakers is OK especially if you can avoid the hassles of shipping. I have a pair of Electrovoice Patrician 800's in a secondary system that are nearly 40 years old that sound fantastic (they are all original). Good luck.

Every piece I have is used and I have had no issues yet "from my mouth to Gods ears" I have in the past purchased new and to truth support from the dealers stunk.I would rather take my chance used and save and if I have a problem down the road pay for repairs. used list as of now
Classe Dr-5 Pre purchased off of Ebay love it
power amps B&K M200 and an Amber series 70 both off of Audiogon
sound dynamics 300ti off of Audiogon
tuners both Kenwood 8300&Mitsubishi DF-20 Thrift store finds
cd players and dvd Audiogon
all cables off of Audiogon
so I have no issues and will continue in the future buying used off of Audiogon.

I used to purchase everything new. Now I'm older and wiser and let someone else take the 50% plus depreciation. Some used audio equipment is better than new because it is already burned in. All you have to do is get an honest seller or audition the equipment yourself. If you have a good tech that can check the electronics out before purchasing very expensive items all the better. I've been careful and have not been burned. I've bought near mint magnepan speakers (picked them up myself) and superb electronics from innersound, PS audio,luxman, McCormack & Lector all for 25-50 cents on the dollar.

Hi Jhkear,
I noticed that you didn't mention auditioning anything from JM Lab. IMHO that is an unfortunate omission. Used speakers from the Utopia and Electra lines are frequently available for a good price on Audiogon and it's a well established company if service is needed. Personally, in your price range, I would look at the pre Beryllium Mini or Mezzo Utopias.

Always Used. That way the Hi-End becomes middle earth. Here is the formula to use. Assume when purchased new, the buyer got a 20% discount off MSRP, could have been more but let us not push it. Offer between 40 to 60% of the twenty off number, starting at the low side to discount for finish defects etc. Once a price is agreed, then the shipping, packing and paypal fees issues can be addressed. The latter should be additions to the price. Never purchase a unit if any of the drivers are not working as replacements will destroy the cost effectiveness of the deal.