Would you say it's worthwhile to buy used headphones?

[ChiSquare]

Hi everyone

Found this listing for some XM4's. Always wanted a pair of these and thought it made be a good idea to upgrade to them, since my Sony earbuds' batteries are getting quite weak. Not entirely sure if it's worth the risk though, since you can't exactly test them. Listing says they do have a remaining warranty at least.

[For Sale] - Sony WH-1000XM4 Noise Cancelling Headphones | Headphones

Item: Sony WH-1000XM4 Noise Cancelling Headphones Age: 5 months Price: R3500 Payment Method Accepted: Instant EFT or Payshap Warranty: Yes Warranty Holder: Incredible Connection Packaging: Original box and receipt. Condition: Excellent Location: Parkhurst, Johannesburg Reason: Switched to buds...

carbonite.co.za

 

[WhoIsJOB]

I'm not sure about wireless, but I bought an Oppo PM-3 on Carb a few years ago and just replaced the ear pads and headband, which I've used daily since then. Brought them with me to the UK and still use them here.
If the headphones have earpads and a headband that can be replaced, I will definitely recommend second hand - much better value and you don't lose so much (excluding inflation) when you decide to sell again.

However, I'd think twice about cans like the Sony, which I don't think have replaceable pads and I'm not sure of the battery's lifetime before it will start failing like an old phone's. Might be wrong, though.
Consider wireless phones with good wired performance, as well, just in case. Just my 2p

 

[Ech0.]

Yes, I havn't bought new headphones in a while, bought 2 pairs from carb and both have been awesome. Just make sure the person selling doesnt have hella lice

 

[thecurto]

I'm still using my XM2s from 2018 and the battery life is still pretty solid. I think they've lost about 10 hours battery life from the original 30 hours (with ANC on) over 6 years (i.e. down to about 20 hours on a full charge now which is still fine for me).

The ear pads/cups are indeed replaceable but you will struggle to find replacements locally. I imported a set from Amazon 2 years ago and they're almost as good as the originals. The headband, however, is not replaceable. Same goes for the XM4s.

Edit: And if the battery ever fails they can be used in wired mode with any 3.5mm cable.

 

[Battletoad]

Just buy the XM4's...

 

[Montezuma]

hmm, depends I guess, I've bought used headphones (wired though) but also trusted the seller. Both were great purchases.

With wireless though I'd maybe be worried about the battery life (is it replaceable?) cause much like your earbuds if they aren't replaceable it is tough to tell what they might be like.

I see that Brainwavz do make replacement earpads for those so you can change the earpads if they are worn (and I love the Brainwavz I've bought in the past, but I did have to order from Amazon or Brainwavz directly).