How risky is it buying used bass cabs?

[JimmyM]

Thanks guys! Could someone please elaborate on checking for voice coil rub? Am I just supposed to push on it with my finger? Wouldn't that require taking the grill off? And what does a voice coil rubbing feel like anyway?

Sorry if these sound like stupid questions!

There are no stupid questions...OK, there are stupid questions...but this isn't bad

You take off the grill and push VERY GENTLY with all your fingers around the dustcap in the middle of the speaker using even pressure. You will feel the rubbing if it exists, no question.

 

[will33]

There are no stupid questions...OK, there are stupid questions...but this isn't bad

You take off the grill and push VERY GENTLY with all your fingers around the dustcap in the middle of the speaker using even pressure. You will feel the rubbing if it exists, no question.

+1

Oftentimes you can also hear it scraping, if it's quiet in the room. It's good form to tell the seller you'd like to check for this instead of just walking in and start taking apart their stuff.

Speakers with coil rub can play long enough to get sold, but not much longer than that.

 

[will33]

I should add that if they are trying to unload a lemon, they'll probably balk at the idea and save you the trip. Although I've had great results buying gear from other local musicians. We all live and function here and for the most part aren't out to rip each other off. Most of my deals have taken place in peoples homes or place of business/work....not the best place to piss somebody off.