dvd recorders and ebay

[mfvt2001]

?
I'm looking for a new dvd recorder specifically a pioneer 531h/533h or jvc mh30s/m100s.
I'm trying to save a few bucks and at the same time not get burned on ebay.
R there any red flags that anyone has come across as far as new recorders are concerned and what kinds of questions need to be asked?
Or is this just one big crapshoot and I take my chances?
any info would be appreciated

one example:

http://cgi.ebay.com/PIONEER-DVR-531H-DVD-RECORDER-80-GIG-Hard-Drive-NEW_W0QQitemZ58217...QQcmdZViewItem

[Epicurus8a]

Pioneer only warranties products purchased from autorized dealers. If that doesn't bother you, look for a seller with very high feedback.

[ozymango]

Or is this just one big crapshoot and I take my chances?

As was already mentioned, on ebay, it's all about feedback. Actually, make that feedback, feedback, FEEDBACK! The unit you posted the link to might be perfectly fine but no offense against the (possibly totally great) seller, I see a "0" feedback and I don't bid. Unless it's some very unusual item and the person has some very good reason for never having used eBay before and I check with them ahead of time to make sure they're on the level. Also he or she notes "Buy it now for $229, contact me for details" but doesn't offer a "Buy It Now" button from eBay -- that's very fishy. Basically, this sets off my "beware!" meter.

I have bought many electronic devices off eBay and I think it's a great resource, so some caveats are:

1) FEEDBACK! Preferably all positive, but if there are negatives in there, find out what it's about and factor that in. A good seller responds to any negative feedback and has their say, too; don't bid if something feels "off."

2) Return and shipping policy is something always to check out right away -- if a seller doesn't either list the shipping charges or doesn't offer a shipping calculator to at least get a close idea of the costs, I don't bid. A good seller cares about that kind of stuff.

Electronic items are often sold "as-is" but even so, a good seller will be as straight as he or she can about item condition and what you can expect to get.

3) If the seller left out any details that matter to you, write them (via the "contact seller" option) and see how fast and helpful they are in getting back to you. Again a good seller will make every effort to be be straight with you about what the do or don't know about the item.

Good luck!

[mfvt2001]

thank you for your informed response

[zoobie]

forget ebay...too much fraud and nightmares

[MJA]

I saw the 531 at wal-mart for $298 ,and if u know someone who works there u can get 10% off

[whitejremiah]

ebay CAN be good...its all dependant on who your dealing with, personally (i know this may seem almost crazy to some) i only deal with sellers with like 10000+ feedback, they are generally very reliable and can work something out if something was to go wrong....

[trhouse]

I have mixed feelings about eBay in terms of value vs risk. Sometimes I walk into a store and there is a return which is available for about the same price as eBay but no bidding, waiiting, the unit is covered by its regular warranty, and the store return privilege.

At the same time, items like color correctors which are no longer manufactured can be had for a song on eBay. Many sellers I have dealt with are not individuals. Quite often they are businesses which provide a service listing items bought to them by customers, or pawn shops, etc. Businesses generally charge for handling in addition to the cost of shipping but they are prompt and professional.

[handyguy]

Why buy from Ebay when you can buy it from a store?

That auction you posted says 'new' but the item is out of the box....that's kind of a clue.

[TBoneit]

If the deal sounds to good to be true.....

I just looked at your link, 0 bids? I Wonder why.

[captcrunch]

Just recently bought my pioneer dvr-220 from ebay and coincidentely it was sold by Gshelley61.Good buy.

[louthewiz]

That item is a refubished item and that's why it being sold open box. lou

[wulf109]

If it's a current model you can find it cheaper at on line retailer and your less likely to be ripped off on shipping charges. On line retailers have a defined return policy. ebay is great for used or dis-continued items but I personally think you'll do better with an established retailer,online or walkin.

[fscrocco]

Also, the 531 does not have an i-link connection (dv), the 533 does. This model is being sold as a 531 but in the description, the seller says it has the dv in. Not possible. Stay away. If you are worried about saving money, you obviously don't have money to blow, so this is a major purchase/investment for you. Spend a few dollars more at Walmart for a new one.