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Joined:
June 2002
Posts: 136
Location: Parkersburg, WV | First of all thanks for this wonderful site. Even though I feel like I'm eavesdropping sometimes, I've looked forward to good conversation and info on Ovations since I bought my first one in 1977. It seems that sites like E-Bay have become a great way to locate and obtain that special Ovation for ones collection and several members have purchased this way. I would like to but I'm a little reluctant. I've bought several small items on E-Bay, all under $100.00 but a little concerned about several 100 dollars or more for an Ovation sight unseen. Any feedback out there positive or negative would be. appreciated. Is someones description of a slight nick actually the size of a bullet hole? Any problems and how were they dealt with? Thanks. |
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Joined:
June 2002
Posts: 123
Location: Pensacola,FL | First, an auction is an auction. That being said, there are several ways to hedge your bet before bidding and winning a "lemon". Ask the seller specific questions, ask for close up pictures (when nicks/scrapes/cracks are mentioned), check sellers feedback for "complaints" and see how or if they were handled. Ask about return policy or if seller even has one. If something looks like it will need repair/adjustment figure that cost into your bid so you end up paying a total of what you wanted to spend or simply "pass" on the auction (you may wish you had bid, but your wallet won't complain :D ). Lastly, I've bought
instruments on eBay and for the most part have had
good luck (mainly because of the stuff mentioned),
others here on the board have some horror stories to tell mainly due to sellers who weren't knowledgeable or who were trying to offload something and just minimized trouble with the phrase "normal wear". So, I guess the phrase "Buyer beware" fits in this case.
[ July 24, 2002: Message edited by: OGL1 ] |
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Joined:
February 2002
Posts: 613
Location: Zion, Illinois | I would check out the thread "Impulsivity!" on what NOT to do (posted by the late Norseman1 who's last words were 'but Honey I didn't REALLY think I'ld win').
Seriously, do your homework first. Have an ideal of what model you want and how much you are willing to spend - don't go a penny more.
This site is a real treasure of Ovation information, don't be afraid to ask any questions.
Personally, I've been very fortunate buying from E-Bay. I picked up a mint 1983 Elite 1537 for $549 complete. Did my homework as recommended in OGL1's posting. Very sweet deal.
Do you have any ideal about what model you want or what price range. There are guitars for sale here on the board (I even think there's a Norseman who might be willing to part with a nice 1997 Standard Balladeer - hehe).
Good luck and keep in touch.
Bradley |
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Joined:
February 2002
Posts: 5750
Location: Scotland | I just bought a late 70's Pacemaker 12 on Ebay for the equivalent of about $225. The seller said it had a neck break, I asked the right questions & figured he was clueless. I picked the guitar up on my way to Heathrow to fly out to NYC. The headstock has been off at some point but the repair is stable. I got a great sounding & playing USA 12-string for beans. The point about Ebay is that you need to know your stuff. I've heard some horror stories from people who've paid lot's of money for junk, but if you're careful you can score.
Paul |
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Joined:
December 2001
Posts: 7222
Location: The Great Pacific Northwest | I've bought many many guitars on eBay... I've overpaid on some items I (and others) really wanted, and got some great bargains other times. Check the seller feedback, and contact the seller if you have any questions or doubts. I've even called a few on the phone. Ask and find out how much shipping would be ahead of time. I find most horror stories, as mentioned above, are due to folks not using all the tools at hand. Happy bidding.... |
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Joined:
July 2002
Posts: 150
Location: Minneapolis, MN | When I'm looking at Ebay ads, two of many phrases that ALWAYS raise red flags with me are:
"...I don't know anything about guitars so..."
It's an obvious one, but still reminds me of a cab driver who says he's new in town!
And "...I'm selling this for a friend..."
Nothing says I'm not responsible like an imaginary seller!
I've had good luck buying guitars from ebay, mainly from following the advice you've just read in the posts above. And keep in mind, there will always be other guitars available in the future. If you decide that your questions just aren't being answered to your satisfaction, look elsewhere -unless of course, your in search of a rare/mythical instrument :D
[ July 29, 2002: Message edited by: Rich ]
[ July 29, 2002: Message edited by: Rich ] |
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