Not bummed at all. I passed on that one because of the scratchy volume pot. I don't need an R-117 with a scratchy pot since the volume pot is really the only Achilles heel on the R-117 and the carbon tends to wear out with usage with the result that the pot gets progressively more scratchy and then fails completely. Once it's gone, it's gone. Not replacement is available. That's why I have some extra R-117s so I can pull the pots if need be.
So, I pass on units with scratchy volume pots, although sometimes, if it's just an oxidation issue, it can be cured with some De-Oxit. However, oxidation is usually not the problem with these and it's a wear and tear issue.
This particular Seller seems to know his audio gear and, more than likely, what a nice R-117 is truly worth. So, I suspect that the issue with this one may be of the serious variety and that he tried De-Oxit but without success. If it had worked out, given the glowing write up, I suspect he would have kept it. So, that's why the low price is more of a warning sign in my eyes.
Anyway, hope this one is not "one of those". :thmbsp:
