Buyer Beware: miniDSP Flex RCA arrived USED & Defective - RESOLVED

[anonyless]

Thanks for having my back, @DenonMate! Just to clarify, miniDSP didn't actually ask for any confidentiality or non-disclosure agreement. However, I prefer not to share the specific numbers out of professional courtesy—just like I didn’t share the exact percentages or amounts during the negotiation process.

what about some courtesy towards the many people who took their time to post here, mainly to advise you?

i didn't ask for "numbers" - just to better understand what sort of solution they provided you.-
i assume by "mutual agreement that helped offset the import complexities and the condition of the unit,"
that they gave you some sort of partial refund for the order, to compensate you for the bad shape of the unit and high cost of import charges.
but again, this is me "interpreting" your above sentence, and (again) assuming the unit is in working condition and that you're actually currently using it.

 

[markk]

Well, I think what's important is that the OP is reasonably happy with the outcome. IMHO no detailed description of the outcome is necessary. The public "doesn't have a right to know," as they say. He doesn't owe the forum any more detail than he has provided.

 

[rcstevensonaz]

I wish it were possible to change the name of this thread to something like "I had an issue with a MiniDSP product and they resolved it to my satisfaction"

Why? Is the initial statement incorrect about the shipped product not being new?

That is something that I personally would like to be aware of.

 

[Kremmen]

what about some courtesy towards the many people who took their time to post here, mainly to advise you?

i didn't ask for "numbers" - just to better understand what sort of solution they provided you.-
i assume by "mutual agreement that helped offset the import complexities and the condition of the unit,"
that they gave you some sort of partial refund for the order, to compensate you for the bad shape of the unit and high cost of import charges.
but again, this is me "interpreting" your above sentence, and (again) assuming the unit is in working condition and that you're actually currently using it.

I don't think Karlaka owes us any more "courtesy" than he has already shown us. A resolution has been reached and he's let us know that. I feel that he has been honourable with the manner in which he has dealt with this closure. I posted on this thread a few times too. Nice to see the story end amicably. The rest is his business in my opinion.

 

[mglobe]

Why? Is the initial statement incorrect about the shipped product not being new?

That is something that I personally would like to be aware of.

The OP was convinced it was not new. While I don’t doubt his sincerity, it’s not certain in my mind. But I’m fine with pretty much everything in the thread. I just think there are a lot of people, and search engines that will glom on to the title, and in the end the vendor doesn’t deserve that kind of attention.

 

[rcstevensonaz]

The OP was convinced it was not new. While I don’t doubt his sincerity, it’s not certain in my mind. But I’m fine with pretty much everything in the thread. I just think there are a lot of people, and search engines that will glom on to the title, and in the end the vendor doesn’t deserve that kind of attention.

[Edit: as @PjV noted be;pw, the manufacture did not put the OP under a non-disclosure. But the underlying point remains: it is useful to know that the manufacture did not ship out a new unit... at least, based on the OP's direct observation of the unit they received.]

The manufacture could have released the OP to share updated information that the product sent really was new. Instead, the OP is restricted by an NDA settlement that was satisfactory to the OP... but essentially leaves the original facts still standing.

Again, for me, this thread captured my attention and contained a lot of very useful information!!! If there were untruths, the manufacture could have addressed them (or allowed the OP to clarify them). But they choose not to.

P.s., the manufacture is also missing out on very useful information about their global customers by choosing to not participate on ASR. That is their business choice. To me, it seems like a wasted opportunity on their part.

 

[PjV]

The manufacture could have released the OP to share updated information that the product sent really was new. Instead, the OP is restricted by an NDA settlement that was satisfactory to the OP... but essentially leaves the original facts still standing.

Again, for me, this thread captured my attention and contained a lot of very useful information!!! If there were untruths, the manufacture could have addressed them (or allowed the OP to clarify them). But they choose not to.

P.s., the manufacture is also missing out on very useful information about their global customers by choosing to not participate on ASR. That is their business choice. To me, it seems like a wasted opportunity on their part.

Is reading really that difficult?

Thanks for having my back, @DenonMate! Just to clarify, miniDSP didn't actually ask for any confidentiality or non-disclosure agreement. However, I prefer not to share the specific numbers out of professional courtesy—just like I didn’t share the exact percentages or amounts during the negotiation process.

I really appreciate all your support throughout this thread!

 

[rcstevensonaz]

Is reading really that difficult?

Yes, I can read written text — including ad hominem attacks (which have no place on ASR).

However, I cannot read minds. And I have no clue what you intended to mean, other than lobbing a personal attack at me.

Edit: Instead of taking the time to make a clear point, I see you copied text below that was meant to be the answer to your attack. In general, I view that as the start of a new section and did not bother to read it since you did not add any additional commentary below that. So yea, I now see what you did there... but to me, it is a very strange way to structure a response.

 

[anonyless]

Why? Is the initial statement incorrect about the shipped product not being new?

That is something that I personally would like to be aware of.

exactly. over 100 messages in, and we don't know -
1. is the (so called) used Flex currently being used?
2. what solution was reached? (i'm not asking for specifics)
3. why is the OP tried to close this matter by posting "i reached a reasonable solution with MiniDSP but i can't / don't want to tell you what it is"
EDIT: before someone reply to me , "that's the nice / honorable / transparent thing to do" - i disagree:
this thread started with a purchase gone bad and a manufacturer ignoring the customer. since 100 messages later, we only have one side of the story, some real transparency about the actual resolution is required.

 

[Kremmen]

exactly. over 100 messages in, and we don't know -
1. is the (so called) used Flex currently being used?
2. what solution was reached? (i'm not asking for specifics)
3. why is the OP tried to close this matter by posting "i reached a reasonable solution with MiniDSP but i can't / don't want to tell you what it is"
EDIT: before someone reply to me , "that's the nice / honorable / transparent thing to do" - i disagree:
this thread started with a purchase gone bad and a manufacturer ignoring the customer. since 100 messages later, we only have one side of the story, some real transparency about the actual resolution is required

I disagree, and I suspect you'll be waiting for a long time for the information you feel you have a right to be given.

 

[Karlaka]

Hello everyone,

To clear up any remaining doubts and address a few points directly:

1. Language and individual thanks: I thanked everyone collectively. English is not my native language, but I believe I made myself clear. There is no need to single out and name every member one by one.
2. Details of the agreement: I received a partial refund. Providing further details adds nothing and simply doesn't feel appropriate.
3. Satisfaction level: The issue was not resolved to my complete satisfaction. However, given the logistical complexities discussed extensively in previous posts, it was a compromise that bridged the gap. Unfortunately, I didn't get the pristine device I wanted, and miniDSP didn't make the full profit margin they usually do on a sale. That doesn't mean either party is entirely thrilled. That is precisely why I asked the administrators to update the thread title—it felt fair because, in the end, a solution was proposed and accepted, which speaks well of miniDSP's willingness to reach an agreement.
4. Condition of the device: I remain completely convinced that the device showed signs of use or display. miniDSP states they don't sell B-stock or refurbished units, and I have no reason to doubt their word, just as they have no reason to doubt mine. Still, an error could have happened, or perhaps it was a unit returned by another customer (assuming the company occasionally handles returns). I don't know for sure—those are just conjectures. In any case, my stance remains that the unit was not in the condition a freshly manufactured and packed device should be in, even if it functions properly.
5. Current status: I am not currently using the Flex, but I plan to do so since, as I've said before, the device appears to work fine. If any operational issues arise, I'll let you know here. I'm not sure how relevant this detail is beyond satisfying someone's personal curiosity, but it costs me nothing to share it, so there you go.
6. Transparency vs. secrecy: I was never trying to close things abruptly or hide information; I just don't see the utility in dwelling on every fine detail. The important thing is that I filed a claim, and after a relatively long negotiation, I obtained a response and a solution. Is it perfect? No, but you don't always get what you want in life.
7. Final thought: Throughout this entire thread, I have tried to be transparent and explain myself as best as I could within my language limitations.

I hope these 7 points finally clear the air, and once again, a huge thank you to EVERYONE for your input, advice, and comments.

Best regards,
Karlaka.

 

[xanalog]

In my opinion, it is best to pay with PayPal, if there is such an option

AmericanExpress (Green, some Blue) also has that 90-day "(A)buyer assurance" feature, along with (B)doubling (w/limits) the warranty period on purchased items.
(A)Brand new pair of $150 riding gloves got trashed on a spill, and got refunded.
(B)14 month old Panasonic plasmaTV bit-the-dust, and got tech-service for a replacement panel.

The best is when you use your PayPal, that gets charged to your AX.

 

[mglobe]

Hello everyone,

To clear up any remaining doubts and address a few points directly:

1. Language and individual thanks: I thanked everyone collectively. English is not my native language, but I believe I made myself clear. There is no need to single out and name every member one by one.
2. Details of the agreement: I received a partial refund. Providing further details adds nothing and simply doesn't feel appropriate.
3. Satisfaction level: The issue was not resolved to my complete satisfaction. However, given the logistical complexities discussed extensively in previous posts, it was a compromise that bridged the gap. Unfortunately, I didn't get the pristine device I wanted, and miniDSP didn't make the full profit margin they usually do on a sale. That doesn't mean either party is entirely thrilled. That is precisely why I asked the administrators to update the thread title—it felt fair because, in the end, a solution was proposed and accepted, which speaks well of miniDSP's willingness to reach an agreement.
4. Condition of the device: I remain completely convinced that the device showed signs of use or display. miniDSP states they don't sell B-stock or refurbished units, and I have no reason to doubt their word, just as they have no reason to doubt mine. Still, an error could have happened, or perhaps it was a unit returned by another customer (assuming the company occasionally handles returns). I don't know for sure—those are just conjectures. In any case, my stance remains that the unit was not in the condition a freshly manufactured and packed device should be in, even if it functions properly.
5. Current status: I am not currently using the Flex, but I plan to do so since, as I've said before, the device appears to work fine. If any operational issues arise, I'll let you know here. I'm not sure how relevant this detail is beyond satisfying someone's personal curiosity, but it costs me nothing to share it, so there you go.
6. Transparency vs. secrecy: I was never trying to close things abruptly or hide information; I just don't see the utility in dwelling on every fine detail. The important thing is that I filed a claim, and after a relatively long negotiation, I obtained a response and a solution. Is it perfect? No, but you don't always get what you want in life.
7. Final thought: Throughout this entire thread, I have tried to be transparent and explain myself as best as I could within my language limitations.

I hope these 7 points finally clear the air, and once again, a huge thank you to EVERYONE for your input, advice, and comments.

Best regards,
Karlaka.

Just FYI, I don’t think you owe anyone anything here. You’ve done the right thing, and FWIW, my recent comments of the condition of the equipment were not meant in any way to be negative towards you. You’ve done the right things, including changing the title and keeping the settlement private. Good on you!

 

[TonyJZX]

going by those photos you wouldnt be happy if that was a $200 fosi or topping product

OP would not have to post this thread and on their own forum if they hadnt have to be SHAMED into responding

no one buys this "return number got lost in the system"... that's a 'dog ate my homework' excuse

i glad OP was made whole but this was either incompetance or malice... pick your poison

its the old saying... if you work in the shadows then no one knows if you done anything... and OP is happy to sing their praises once finished

if they cant adequatedly support someone in argentina or timbuktu then dont sell there

 

[anonyless]

i glad OP was made whole but this was either incompetance or malice... pick your poisoni

he wasn't made whole to my opinion - partial refund is nice but not a solution to badly worn and "new but used" product

 

[DenonMate]

he wasn't made whole to my opinion - partial refund is nice but not a solution to badly worn and "new but used" product

Right. They made more profit with this item as they should do nevertheless what discount the OP got. But it came to an end. My personal very subjective conclusion of this thread and the one in minidsp forum is: There is a risk that I have to move rocks (including waking them up with a thread) if something goes wrong with a minidsp delivery and maybe I get some my “ticket get lost” excuse. In the case I would deal directly with them and not using an european distributor. For me the expensive but promising Tide isn’t an option anymore if my current AVR dies.
(As I said, my very subjective view on this case and I think minidsp missed a big opportunity for selfmarketing. justmy2cents.)

 

[Karlaka]

Just FYI, I don’t think you owe anyone anything here. You’ve done the right thing, and FWIW, my recent comments of the condition of the equipment were not meant in any way to be negative towards you. You’ve done the right things, including changing the title and keeping the settlement private. Good on you!

Thank you, @mglobe! Just to clarify, I never interpreted your comments that way at all. I really appreciate your support and good words.
Cheers!

 

[Karlaka]

going by those photos you wouldnt be happy if that was a $200 fosi or topping product

OP would not have to post this thread and on their own forum if they hadnt have to be SHAMED into responding

no one buys this "return number got lost in the system"... that's a 'dog ate my homework' excuse

i glad OP was made whole but this was either incompetance or malice... pick your poison

its the old saying... if you work in the shadows then no one knows if you done anything... and OP is happy to sing their praises once finished

if they cant adequatedly support someone in argentina or timbuktu then dont sell there

Thanks, @TonyJZX.
I completely understand your point, and honestly, at the beginning I thought the exact same thing about miniDSP's initial replies—they felt like childish excuses. However, we eventually managed to dialogue and reach a compromise.

To put it in perspective, I have bought many Fosi products (they even once sent me a free amplifier as a gift and a review unit of a preamp), and none of those budget-friendly devices ever showed the slightest trace of use—no dirt, no marks, no loose parts.
I truly wish I had a smoother, more pleasant experience with miniDSP, but sadly that wasn't the case. Still, I appreciate you calling out the realities of international support!

 

[Karlaka]

he wasn't made whole to my opinion - partial refund is nice but not a solution to badly worn and "new but used" product

To be fair, @anonyless, you are entirely right in principle: a partial refund doesn't magically turn a flawed item into a pristine, brand-new unit. But in the real world—especially when dealing with international shipping, customs, and import bureaucracy from Argentina—holding out for a 'perfect' resolution can often leave you with nothing at all.

It was a pragmatic compromise to minimize losses, not an ideal scenario. But at this point, I've made peace with it and moved on!

 

[Karlaka]

Right. They made more profit with this item as they should do nevertheless what discount the OP got. But it came to an end. My personal very subjective conclusion of this thread and the one in minidsp forum is: There is a risk that I have to move rocks (including waking them up with a thread) if something goes wrong with a minidsp delivery and maybe I get some my “ticket get lost” excuse. In the case I would deal directly with them and not using an european distributor. For me the expensive but promising Tide isn’t an option anymore if my current AVR dies.
(As I said, my very subjective view on this case and I think minidsp missed a big opportunity for selfmarketing. justmy2cents.)

Spot on, @DenonMate. You couldn't have said it better. It really was a missed opportunity for them, and your takeaway about the risks involved is precisely why this whole situation was so exhausting. I truly appreciate your common sense and class throughout this entire thread.
Take care and thanks, again!