Would you guys go to eBay for a brand new product, such as a DP-24?

[A Reel Person]

... or just stick with the standard music retailers?

Personally, I'd be worried about returns and warranty issues with eBay & maybe the extra $50 spent at musiciansfriend is worth the peace of mind. Big retailers usually throw in free shipping too, which saves more $ off the bottom line. Ebay sellers seem fly-by-night sometimes. Opinions?

 

[david42]

Most times when I see new gear it seems the seller IS a traditional retailer.

And sometimes the seller is an authorized dealer that you never heard of. You should check with the seller and see if the warranty is available.

Every now and then someone gets something by mistake (two of the same xmas present, for instance, and wants to sell new. Ask if they have the receipt too, because if they do and will include it, you don't need anything else for Tascam's warranty. Just fill out the warranty card.

I have never had much trouble with ebay sellers probably due to the fact that I only stick to 99% reputation or above.

Finally, Tascam makes good stuff and it's frequently still really good when it's used. I bought my DP-01 used for $75 and it served me well for three years before I wore the buttons out!

 

[grimtraveller]

Most times when I see new gear it seems the seller IS a traditional retailer.

I've found this too. But I've so rarely had a problem with ebay or Amazon, for that matter, that I have no hesitation in buying stuff either way.

 

[jimirb]

I agree....many sellers of new equipment on eBay ARE the same big guys (MF, Sweetwater, M123, etc) that we all buy from. For reasons only they know, they OFTEN sell the exact same item on eBay MUCH cheaper than they sell the same item on their own website. It probably has to do with overstocks and the fact that manufacturers typically control the minimum price a dealer can advertise, etc.

I just bought a couple of name brand powered speakers new from M123 on eBay for 30% less than they sell the exact same item on their site. They came with the return policy and warranty as if they came from their site.

I've made almost 200 purchases on eBay. I NEVER buy from anyone with less than a 99.5% positive feedback rating and only from sellers who accept returns. I've never had an issue nor have I ever had to return anything. In fact, my DP-008 came thru eBay, brand new with full warranty for $138 delivered!