using eBay? (preferrably from Europe)

I'm thinking of buying consumer electronics, such as an mp3-player, headphones and maybe an headphone-amp.

In Europe the prices of consumer electronics are an outrage compared to The States. That's why I've been also thinking to buy 'em online, FROM the States.

I'd like to hear your opinion about buying online - generally and also about eBay. I've read about scams on eBay and even that PayPal hacks its accounts to steal money etc.

Do YOU trust those online enterprises?

I've bought online from several places, with generally good results (only one place didn't send my stuff, and charged my card. Haven't heard from the cc company yet). I know people who buy and sell all the time on eBay with good results. There are scams and such, but they really aren't common, they just make news. SO, be sure to check the seller's ratings and comments. Thats the best way to check that stuff. Do you have limited fraud liability on cc's in Europe? If so, then you really have very little at risk. I haven't used paypal, and have no opinon.

be careful ~ remember the voltage differences

ooh, somebody's thinking

If you are thinking about buying from the US purely because it is cheaper then forget it because customs in Europe will charge the appropriate tax for your country and the overall price will end up the same or you will loose out.

As far as using eBay goes it is really down to common sence, buy from trusted people who have good feedback, if you are unsure about anything contact them first to make any arrangements or ask questions.

PayPal is fine, there are lots of stories about them just like there are with any large company, they are also owned by eBay now. I have used PayPal for many years and as long as you don't break their terms you will be fine. If you do break their terms they will freeze your account and investigate just like any company would. I currently have 2 personal accounts and 6 Premier accounts with PayPal and in total 4 years experience with them along with countless customers who use them and no one has ever had a problem that I know of.

HTH