I do buy used audio on occasion, only certain types like V-fet/SIT amps and high end speakers. It’s my opinion that it actually is much easier than buying a used car.
Why is used audio equipment so undesirable?
I’ve upgraded many things over the past couple years and quite frankly there is limited interest and not much to be gained by getting rid of unused equipment. My dealer doesn’t want it. And it’s all fairly new stuff within a few years. It’s easier just to box it and store it away and give it to someone if a situation ever arises. Selling it is ridiculous as I’m lucky to get 30 or 40% Plus all the hassle negotiating when selling, so I keep it.
It’s risky buying used audio equipment so there is no interest even for very nice units. So I’ve got nearly half dozen pieces taking up a lot of space all sitting in their original boxes and maybe next time I buy some new speakers I’ll prepare a list and get a few thousand dollars after paying nearly 4 to 5 time more when new.
Would I buy a used preamp or speakers for $15-$20,000? that might be very risky. So I guess I understand why used audio is not that desirable. After buying something used, you may wonder if it would have sounded different if I bought it new? And there in lies the quandry
Much easier buying a used car.
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I have been buying (mostly) used components for four decades, and have never had a problem. Audiophiles tend to take good care of their gear. It's true that there is typically sharp and rapid depreciation of new components, like new cars, which is why buying used makes such good sense. Obviously some brands/models are much easier to re-sell than others, so take that into account. |
Like @whipsaw, I have had no issues buying used. I have built two systems from the used market. I haven’t had any reliability issues. I try to stay in the relatively new,used market though. |
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