Alleged "Used" Stuff From Online Retailers

Bongolation · #1 12-16-2009, 06:40 AM

This whole business of "used" gear from places like MF has often seemed fishy to me.

Check it out: A lot of this "Category 1 Used" stuff not only is only marginally less than the new gear, but is "mint" with only "packing damage" and is often on stuff they absolutely, categorically won't accept as returns, like microphones and drumheads, etc.

Doesn't this appear to be in some cases nothing but a way to sell off certain amounts of excess new-gear stocks without violating manufacturer's minimum advertised price agreements?

Like how are they going to have five identical sets of "mint" drumhead prepacks that are "used"? Likewise ten identical "used" microphones in "mint" condition with "damaged packaging" that they claim are illegal for them to even sell.

Never mind that maybe the discount is only 5%-10% over new A-stock.

Seem funny to you too?

**JxBass** · #2 12-16-2009, 06:56 AM

I have purchased a couple of Category 1 items from MF and in one case it did not come in original packaging, in another case is was in original packaging but it had been obviously opened and resealed.

At least in these cases it did appear to be items that were returned that couldn't sell as new.

CBBass123 · #3 12-16-2009, 06:58 AM

Its pretty possible they have tons of inventory that gets damaged or returns so its a good way to sell them for discount. As far as the little discount, not worth it IMO. Better to just get it new.

Bongolation · #4 12-16-2009, 07:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JxBass

At least in these cases it did appear to be items that were returned that couldn't sell as new.

I've had a lot of really obvious returns sold to me as new A-stock. That's perfectly legal and they do it all the time.

But..."used" microphones and strings and drumheads? I don't think that's real..

dave88 · #5 12-16-2009, 09:54 AM

What I found when ordering the old Scratch N Dent from Musicians Friend (haven't tried their new Used program) is that the products would be invariably from OTHER Music Stores and often would have the reason listed for their return (MF must have been too lazy to throw this stuff out!) such as "wouldn't fit in my rack" and whatnot. So, MF won't accept certain items as returns BUT they will sell said items that were returned to other stores.

**kenstee** · #6 12-16-2009, 11:31 AM

With a long 45 day return period on their orders there is going to be a lot of slightly used or opened but never used inventory from people who change their minds after trying the product OR open the box and never use the product.

Bongolation · #7 12-16-2009, 04:22 PM

Yes, but [ONE MORE TIME!] not on things they can't sell used, like microphones.

CBBass123 · #8 12-16-2009, 08:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bongolation

Yes, but [ONE MORE TIME!] not on things they can't sell used, like microphones.

considering how bad my singers mic stinks...thats F@king gross!

TortillaChip520 · #9 12-16-2009, 08:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CBBass123

Its pretty possible they have tons of inventory that gets damaged or returns so its a good way to sell them for discount. As far as the little discount, not worth it IMO. Better to just get it new.

But i can get a used aguilar db 810 for $5 less than a new one! and it's not even the color i want! That is a steal, my friend

CBBass123 · #10 12-16-2009, 09:41 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TortillaChip520

But i can get a used aguilar db 810 for $5 less than a new one! and it's not even the color i want! That is a steal, my friend

lol will they throw in a couple beer stains or two.

or wait just thought of something... Aged "new" guitars are kinda a new trend. Instead of saying used, why don't they just say for instance...New Aged Aguilar DB 810. I'm sure there's some numbnut that will buy it.

dave88 · #11 12-16-2009, 09:46 PM

that's f-n hilarious, Relic'd amps and mics!

time & groove · #12 12-16-2009, 10:21 PM

Back in Sept, MF had a used 2009 Fender American Standard Jazz (candy cola, maple neck) for $1260. After a couple calls & emails I found out it was just a return, no blems. They were also running an additional 20% off on used gear sale. Along with a 45 day return window, I couldn't pass up a near mint bass for $1008! The only thing I noticed was that the box had been retaped. That four hundred dollar savings almost equals what I paid last year for a Standard FSR ash. I tell my wife I got 2 for the price of one!!!
Also, in regards to scratch and dents...2 yrs ago I got a similiar deal on SKB drum cases. One case had a "minor" scuff mark. The savings paid for 2 additional cases. Yeah, I was nervous each time but things worked out nicely.

ko stradivarius · #13 12-21-2009, 12:18 PM

My only dealing with purchasing a used item from a big store was from MF. I bought an Aguilar cab. When I got it and plugged it in, it was painfully obvious some clown had blown the speaker and returned it. They didnt bother to check the cab out before turning around and reselling it. I checked to make sure nothing was touching the back of the speaker just in case. However, they did pay for shipping back to them but what a waste of time.