What are the benefits. . . .?

[plastic penguin]

Hi all.

I'm looking for some constructive advice. I will shortly be purchasing an amplifier and I wondered where are the best places to go. I have a very short-list of amps I'm looking at, but not sure whether to purchase from a dealer or an on-line auction site?

Looking on e-bay, there are second hand tempters but apprehensive I might fall victim to erm. . . .let's say less than truthful sellers. So what are the benefits of buying from these sites and how can you spot a scam?

Any help will be appreciated

Thanks, PP

 

[drummerman]

You've been long enough on this forum to know me thinks mate. If you know what you're buying then ebay's fine with a good chance though no guarantee of getting something at a good price. Pick-up is always preferable with electronics rather than relying on the caring nature of a courier. The usual checks ie feedback, length of membership etc give some idea on how genuine the person/company is. There are audio specialist shops that trade on ebay, usually end of line/trade in products. Still, in todays climate, you can easily walk away from a dealer with a nice freshly boxed item at a good price.

 

[plastic penguin]

Absolutely DM. My problem is I've got no experience of e-bay, and I'm trying to fathom the appeal as opposed to going to a recognized dealer.

 

[drummerman]

Someone I can't mention on this forum has had a string of beautiful systems from Copland to Plinius, purchased at very good prices through ebay. I have bought the odd bit over the years without any problems either. Its a risk but with a bit of common sense you should be ok. Like I said, there are quite a few bona fide dealers shedding stock over the media so you could minimise risk further though you pay a premium which may not make it any more cost effective than a high street dealer. Hope you find your amp.

 

[Anonymous]

E-Bay has and will always be my friend.

 

[drummerman]

EvilWolf:
E-Bay has and will always be my friend.

You need to get out more

 

[plastic penguin]

drummerman:Someone I can't mention on this forum has had a string of beautiful systems from Copland to Plinius, purchased at very good prices through ebay. I have bought the odd bit over the years without any problems either. Its a risk but with a bit of common sense you should be ok. Like I said, there are quite a few bona fide dealers shedding stock over the media so you could minimise risk further though you pay a premium which may not make it any more cost effective than a high street dealer. Hope you find your amp.

From what I can make out ebay is good, for instance, vintage or old-ish stuff, but for amps just out of production maybe a good dealer might just be the ticket.

 

[plastic penguin]

Just been on e-bay and seen Arcam FMJ A22. I don't know anything about this particular model. Can anyone enlighten me, please.