Is demo gear OK, or abused?

Arctos · « **on:** 26 Nov 2003, 01:26 am »

Hi,
In my constant search for the "deal of the century" in audio gear I often come across what look like good deals on demo gear. Is this stuff usually in good condition, or is it abused by the store personnel or prospective customers pushing the limits of the gear?

Just looking for some opinions.

Regards,

RDS

Marbles · « **Reply #1 on:** 26 Nov 2003, 01:30 am »

In my experience, most Demo gear is in great shape.

There are exceptions of course, but on the whole, If I knew the seller or if they had a good reputation, for example if they had a forum here, I would not hesitate to buy from them.

warnerwh · « **Reply #2 on:** 26 Nov 2003, 02:03 am »

Demo gear is usually a true bargain in my past experience. It typically comes with a new warranty also. It usually looks and works like new.

duff138 · « **Reply #3 on:** 26 Nov 2003, 03:09 am »

most of my stuff is demo gear.

turntable, phono amp, upgrade power supply for phono amp, and integrated amp. All demo or used pieces.

Audiophiles tend to take care of their gear, so 2nd hand stuff is almost like new most of the time.

Tonto Yoder · « **Reply #4 on:** 26 Nov 2003, 03:16 am »

My experience with demo gear was somewhat bad--I bought a BAT amp from Renaissance Sounds that supposedly was his demo, but it turned out to be more like the owner's personal used unit. It was represented as one year old, but turned out to be three years old (important since BAT's warranty is just one year if the warranty card hasn't been registered).
Fortunately BAT was exemplary in its dealings and straightened things out,
but I wouldn't buy from the dealer again. Demo gear from a reputable dealer would be a different matter.

I've had better luck buying second-hand gear from a different dealer--Upscale Audio.

zybar · « **Reply #5 on:** 26 Nov 2003, 03:39 am »

My experience has been very positive buying demo gear or used gear. Almost all of it has been purchased at Audiogon

I have found that "most" audiophiles take excellent care of their gear and it has really been a buyer's market in 2003.

Buying demo/used is one way I could afford all of my goodies!

GW[/url]

Arctos · « **Reply #6 on:** 28 Nov 2003, 03:43 am »

Thanks for the info!!
My next question would be, does the component make a difference or is all demo gear usually in good shape? My own personal feelings would be that I would be a little more concerned with a pair of speakers than and amp due to the fact that the speakers are more delicate.

RDS

warnerwh · « **Reply #7 on:** 28 Nov 2003, 04:22 am »

I don't think I'd worry about speakers. They last a long time and if there's a problem with them you'll know it right away. Most dealers don't want to have a problem with the sale either as it costs more than it would have to make sure things were right in the first place. That said I'm sure there's some that aren't totally honest and/or competant. See if you can check them out on the forums etc.

Tanner · « **Reply #8 on:** 30 Nov 2003, 10:27 am »

I bought a demo pair of Piega P8 limited and they were flawless. I also bought 2 pairs of Gamut M250 monoblocks as Demo's and they are also flawless. Most dealers won't ruin there reputation on any demo gear they are unloading.

Kim S. · « **Reply #9 on:** 30 Nov 2003, 11:54 am »

Except for my speakers and some power cords my entire system is made up of demos. I have been very happy with everything. Most of the items have come in like new condition to the extent I wondered why the retailer didn't sell it again as new. Now when I'm looking for a new addition to my system I automatically look for the demo. Its a great way to get more bang for the buck in what can be a very expensive hobby.

I have dealt with 3 retailers buying used or demo equipment,audio advisor, music direct, and usedcables.com. I have been very satisfied with each,

audioengr · « **Reply #10 on:** 30 Nov 2003, 06:49 pm »

I have purchased a lot of used gear that I use for my reference equipment as well as customer sales. Never got anything bad. I do avoid the "super-cheap" units, because there is usually something wrong with them. I also avoid the pawn shops that sell on ebay.