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New or used???

I'm currently building a two-channel system starting with the speakers, and of all the speakers in the $3-$6K price range I have listened to (including Joseph RM25XL, Paradigm S6, B&W 804S, Totem Forest, Thiel CS 2.4, PSB Synchrony 1) the Von Schweikert VR-4JR, Dali Helicon 400 and Sonus Faber Grand Pianos and Cremonas all stood out for me.

Here's my dilemma ... For budgetary concerns (and so my fiancée doesn't kill me), I'm trying to keep the speaker purchase near $5K. I was wondering if any of you have any advice on buying new (the VR-4JRs or Dalis) vs. used (such as picking up the Cremonas or a pair of VR-4SRs used) as well as your opinion on how these speakers compare to each other. Thanks for your help.
jhkear
55dok
162 posts
 
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.
phaelon
1,038 posts
 
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.
tiger
313 posts
 
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.
tiger
313 posts
 
More on used. Look for widows that are selling the husband's system. In most cases these widows are not very attached to the system, even if they know the value. If the dead spouse was selling the stuff, they are emotionally involved. Most widows become shocked and outraged when told what the husband paid for their stuff. In most cases the widow totally resents the system as it always came between the couple. Widows are so glad to get rid of the stuff. How do you find widows? Well, I found two and the equipment sold was top notch and a great buy. Is that taken advantage? No, I always made them aware of what the equipment cost new.
schipo
1,268 posts
 
Tiger
Im just curious did you offer these so called bereaved widows anything else besides cash for their dearly departed ones stereo gear?
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