Buying a PA system 2nd hand, what are the dangers?

scotty

Hi,

I have been keeping en eye out for a PA system and have come across a deal on Gumtree:

R4000 for a Yamaha EMX212S Powered Mixer and two 15inch Passive Wharfedale speakers.

From what I could gather on the web this seems like quite an attractive deal.
http://www.gumtree.co.za/cp-musical-instruments-in-sandton-alexandra/pa-system-for-sale-510957504

All I would need to add is a monitor, speaker stands and I am a for away for small gigs.

Does anyone have any opinions regarding this setup and any advice for checking that the system is working and in good condition? I have very little experience with PA's and speakers and have always been very wary of buying second hand speakers.

Any thoughts on this deal and the general purchase of a 2nd hand PA system would be appreciated.

The powered mixer:
http://usa.yamaha.com/products/live_sound/mixers/powered-mixers/emx_box_type/emx212s/?mode=model

Speakers (seems similar to these but not 100% sure):
http://www.wharfedalepro.com/Home/Products/PASSIVELOUDSPEAKERS/DELTASERIES/DELTA15/tabid/417/Default.aspx

kevjones

It looks ok but you cant tell from a picture. The speakers are great (if they are not blown obviously) i think those speakers have overload protection. I have a set of EV15 Pro and they are fantastic. The Mixer I don't know but if it's a bit weak you can always get a power amp and use that to drive the overall sound. R4k does not sound like a lot if the stuff is in good condition.

AlanRatcliffe

Most common things to check for are distortion from speaker drivers and scratchy volume pots on the mixer. Both are easily repaired, bit will obviously add to the cost. Oh yeah... it's got digital FX, so just make sure they work (generally, they work or they don't and repairs can be expensive).

EQ and trim pots don't see much use, so are unlikely to be worn - any scratchiness there can usually be cured by rotating them a few times. Occasionally sockets may need cleaning too.

Otherwise, looks like a good deal. I don't know the specific components, but both good brand names.