Gear Condition Explained
Used, Ex-Demo, B-Stock... What Does It Mean
So you're looking for high quality used professional audio and visual equipment, you've bound to have seen the terms; B-Stock, Ex-Demo, Mint, Excellent and so on used before but you're not 100% sure what condition a B-Stock or Mint item truly translates into.
In order to help with this GDS have created a simple but concise system for classification of quality; we want you to have a crystal clear picture of what to expect when you buy a used product from GDS.
In addition we will always try to provide as many pictures and as much information, history and detailed descriptions as possible to help you know exactly what condition and quality the product is in.
GDS has multiple classifications to describe conditions, from B-Stock at the top all the way down to fair. We've put together some guidelines below to explain what each condition means so it's easier for you to find the quality for your equipment.
Condition Considerations
The factors that determines a products' condition rating are closely tied to the type and age of gear being referred to.
A couple of scuffs or marks on the bottom of a loudspeaker casing isn't going be a major issue for anyone, especially if you are made aware prior to purchase. However scuffs on the face of an LED screen will significantly impact it's condition and desirability.
Age is also a huge consideration in terms of what people expect and tolerate. An amplifier made 10 years ago can't expect to be held to the same condition as one made recently but may still be excellent condition for its age and comparable items.
B-STOCK
B-Stock (also commonly called Warehouse, Open Box, As New, Like New, Returns, Reseals, etc) are items that may have been opened, used as display or demo items and may have box damage or in some cases minor cosmetic damage such as a barley visible scratch on a speaker casing or light enclosure.
Gear with B-Stock classification will be tested to ensure it meets manufacturer requirements and will come with a limited manufacturer warranty.
VERY GOOD
Great condition items will be in perfect working order but with more cosmetic marks or blemishes than an excellent item but still in overall awesome condition.
They are less likely to include packaging but it's still a possibility.
Example of a very good condition items could include a DJ Mixer that operates as new but has a scratch on the side and slight fading of a small section of the logo.
MINT
For mint condition expect any items to be just short of brand new, often including all original packaging, manuals and inserts.
There should be no dings, dents marks or imperfections on the products.
They will be operate and function perfectly, feeling as tight and crisp as if new.
GOOD
Items of a good condition will operate absolutely great but will increased usage or age wear.
...and there is much less chance of original packaging.
Good condition items will have more significant cosmetic damage such as dents or large scratches and blemishes.
EXCELLENT
Anything used sparingly but still in a "new" condition. All newer items will be free, or very close to free, of visual marks, imperfections and defects.
Older items are likely to have visual defects but the item will be in the best condition it can be when compared to similarly aged items.
Products may or may not come with packaging and inserts in varying condition.
FAIR
On the odd occasion we may include a "fair" condition item that is rare, unique or extra special.
The item will be in fine functional working condition but will be without any packaging or accessories unless it's age relative.
They will have significant marks or a collection of many blemishes or defects but this will not affect working order.