Experiences buying used cartridges

Agree with teo_audio. Think things through, do it often, and you can explore a wonderful range of high-end cartridges that you wouldn’t have otherwise been able to afford.

My two biggest used cartridge purchases were a Koetsu Onyx Platinum and Jade Platinum right here on audiogon (different sellers). Both were awesome buys; the cartridges were in great condition and sounded amazing. The Onyx provided years of top-quality enjoyment until an ex-gf broke it. The Jade is still kept mostly in reserve with very occasional use.

I’m working class, so even with deep used discounts, a Koetsu is a big purchase. The risk was worth it, though. You can enjoy champagne on a beer budget (kinda).

I’ve also bought a couple Benz woods, and a few Ortofons. Only problem was once I bought a 10/10 rated Cadenza Bronze that the seller described as new in box. Since it was intended as a backup, I didn’t inspect it until many months later -- and while it was truthful that this cart has never been mounted, the cantilever is not on quite straight. Not pictures in the ad, of course. Though it’s my fault for not checking things immediately -- I would’ve definitely disclosed this upfront as a seller. With careful alignment it’s probably not going to be an issue, but it definitely affects the value of the cart (I paid a premium for it being unused).

Dear @abucktwoeighty : Is it this person?:
https://www.audiogon.com/listings/cartridges-monster-cable-genesis-1000-lomc-phono-cartridge-4-hours...

Thank's,
R.

rauliruegas, yes.

Have bought four used carts, three were fine.  The forth one had a bent cantilever but the seller was great and made things right.  I would buy used again from a reputable seller. 

I would recommend to buy used cartridges from ebay to get buyers protection for those who’re not sure about the seller reputation. The price may be 15% higher than in the private agon listings, but at least there is no chance you will be ripped-off.

Why not ask the seller about suspension condition or to ask for additional pictures of everything if there is no clear statement in the listing? I would avoid the oldschool sellers who can’t even take a good pictures of the cartridge, cantilever, stylus tip.

But there is no reason to avoid used cartridges!

As Halcro said:

I’ve had many more disappointments with ’new’’ cartridges and it would take some serious word-of-mouth for me to outlay again for a ’new’ current model.

Exactly, that’s why buying vintage cartridges (NOS or Used) is great experience compared to overpriced new high-end models. Most of us buyin and selling cartridges, i do that just to try something different searching for "my sound". I hardly imagine someone trying to full people on ebay, bacause it’s a nightmare for the seller if the buyer is not happy about purchase. Pretty easy.