Do you buy gear new, used, both?

Mostly used. I've purchased from TMR, USAM, High Performance, and Echo. I do a lot of research and communication with the seller, and always negotiate a better price. I typically pay around 55% of retail and only purchase current or recent models. I would estimate I've purchased $35k retail value for $22k. 

I've had great luck I suppose because everything I've purchased has looked and performed like new. I've had no issues with any of them. YMMV

doesn't matter really, it's with the tech

I have higher cost systems and buy either closeouts or demos.  When dartzeel was having issues I called some dealers who wanted out and got a new cth-8550 for 60% off.  Another dealer wanted out of kharma so I bought those at 40% off.  If I am buying a DAC or streamer I typically buy new to get the latest technology.

used.. vintage mcintosh

Over 60 years, I’ve bought used, bought kits, traded, bought store and show demos and I’ve bartered. I’ve built from scratch some speakers and sub woofers and I have recently bought some new equipment.