miroslav
Cosmic Cowboy
That last line about hit or miss is why I avoid used tape. The money spent on each miss could have gone toward new sealed tape.
Yes...that could be the case, and might be more warranted for the smaller formats, as the price difference between new, NOS and used is often a lot closer.
With 2"...a new or NOS reel is normally in the $250-$300 range. That's what they sell for...and there's no one you're going to complain to that's going to make them sell for less.
So...between taking a chance on what appears to be decent used 2" tape at say $25-$30/reel VS new/NOS at $250-$300 per reel....I don't have a problem taking a chance on the used from time to time.
Of course...some research, some discussion with the seller...and hey, eBay/PayPal offer full buyer protection for items that don't meet the descriptions or for seller promises that are not met. So if they sell it as good tape and you get SSS...you can get your money back even the seller has a "no refund" policy.
I've gotten 2-3 refunds from "no refund" sellers...AND I made them include all the shipping both ways. It wasn't for tape, but I'm just saying that the "risk" really is minimal if you know your way around eBay and have a good standing with them and PayPal.
That said...the seller that I was getting the 4 reels of NOS 2" 499 earlier at $125 each...just told me that he has another 2 NOS reels that he found.
Actually, I think it's a she, and it looks like it's all maybe her ex's or someone who passed that was into audio/video judging by the other items that she had for sale. She seems very nice and I'm certain she's not a scammer....and I first had PayPal check her account standing before I sent any money...and yes, they said I was covered with buyer protection....so, again...no real risk, a hassle maybe worst case, but I will not lose any money (knock on wood ).