As collectors, it is true that we have made ourselves dependent on ebay. How much of this is just a habit? I have to say, without ebay, I would not have met the many friends that I have in this hobby. In fact, one of my best friends in this habit, I mean hobby, of phonograph collecting I met on ebay about four years ago. I bought a Victor II from him. I picked it up from his home and have visited with him on several occasions. He has been very helpful to me as he is very knowledgeable in phonographs and has repaired several of my machines. To say ebay has been all bad would not be fair. However, ebay is an example of a very humble source that starts out big by being a great venue and a great value to the customer. Then, after success, greediness sets in and there is no consideration for the ones that made them who they are. I hate to say it, but this has become the American way. It all revolves around that thing called MONEY! My land, when do people or businesses say...enough is enough. I mean one can only spend so much money in a life time. It is like the greedy baseball player that feels like 55 million is not enough. Well, since it isn't, let's charge the fans a fortune for a ticket and make that fan mortgage the house for a hot-dog.
As I stated in an earlier message, I have begun my boycott of ebay. I will rely on the friends that I have made, and the shows in my area to add to my collections. Not only will I not use ebay, but I will see exactly what I am buying and will see the person from whom I am buying from. You know something, it is much more fun that way! It is a fact that ebay will continue to thrive, and we, the collector and hobbyist will have to pay the price if we continue to support ebay. As my late grandfather used to say..."Every Dog Has His Day." Ebay may be on top of the world today...but nothing lasts forever on this great earth of ours. No one is the 'Big Cheese' forever. There will be a new kid on the block, just wait and see. You are a great bunch. I enjoy this thread very much! Keep 'em spinning at 78!! Brantley </HTML>
