Inspecting a "used" speaker.

Mudfrog

I picked up an open box Monitor 70 off of Newegg.. aside from a visual inspection what should I "listen" for to ensure it's 100% functional. Since this will be my only 70 (still need to order another) I will probably replace my CS2 with the 70 for a few hours of tv / movies.

mikehpolk

Play something you know well and are familair with. Push it a bit on a range of frequencies to make sure all the components work.

Mudfrog

Ah.. I received the speaker and it was trashed. No packing in the box. I didn't even bother hooking it up, it's being replaced.

Bobsama

Unfortunate. Usually, used speakers are better picked up locally.

MrGlobe

I purchased a pair of M70s open box from NE a few years ago as well. They shipped individually but ended up on the same truck. Very poor packaging, both boxes were shredded with only bits of styrofoam floating around the bottom of each box. Both towers had their top and mid grill pegs broken from bouncing around. I pretty much was able to inspect the speakers through the large holes in the boxes. All the drivers ended up in good shape, surprisingly enough. Once I cleaned them up there were only a few dents and snags in the grills visible. I used them for a couple years with no problems. It was nice to not have to worry about them getting ruffed up in my living room.

EDIT: To summarize, I would have to think very carefully before purchasing a large speaker from NE open box again. If I hadn't gotten such a great price, they would have gone back immediately.

Mudfrog

I'm with you. I'm not buying any more speakers open box from NE. Since they will replace it with a new one it was $119 well spent though.