I saw that ad before, and you're right. It's insane. For one thing, they describe the finish as a burl, as if it were actual wood. It's not, it's just a wrap. I think sometimes people are just a bit too proud of what they're selling, which inflates the price.

We had a thread going last week that explored the dark side of this crazy priced listing phenomenon.

Essentially, I feel (and others agreed) that some of these crazy prices may be posted to purposely mislead anyone who might do a lazy cursory search. Effectively artificially inflating the perceived market value, at least for those who don't do thorough research. They find the crazy priced one(s) and then they think they are getting a steal when they find one for a more reasonable price. So it moves the market forward. The more rare the item, the more effective this scam could be.

I noticed it when I completed restoration on a somewhat rare North kit, I found only one North kit currently for sale on Reverb and none on eBay. It was not only priced at least double what it should be (IMHO), it was (I think) made to look extra shabby in the pics...mismatched heads etc. When I saw it and thought about it, it became obvious that the next North kit that goes up for sale, even at the high end of it's actual value, would be perceived as a home run when compared to that Reverb listing.

They ask stupid [bad] prices because for some reason, someone will pay it, eventually. Its a buyer beware situation, just like you,ve been taught since you were young, so I don't feel sorry for them.

Liars, cheaters, cons, scum bags, etc is where I get angry and pray that karma takes over.

There's a big difference between those who know the market and price high for very select pieces vs. those who don't know the market and do faulty research (or not) and base their price off those high-end pieces or other overpriced listings (to which their quality for their kit/drum ain't even close).

I've never bought off Reverb. I would if I found something I'm looking for - and notice most have OFFERS available (it's the only reason I ever look). The only thing I like REVERB for is copious photos (if the seller bothers to use them; which they often don't).

Many of the listings are from drummers/musicians who're hoping for you to buy their backwards lottery ticket.

I would still choose Reverb over eBay in a second.

If I want to know actually sold prices on reverb I search for the item and add:

&showsold=true

And I get all the actual sold prices to see if the seller has a point (or if i'm selling, if my price is proper according to the other sold prices)

For what it's worth...I agree with musiqman.

I prefer Reverb for many reasons. Not the least of which is the lower fees.

Thanks for the search tip!

Why do you prefer it? Curious as I might be encouraged to buy there.

FWIW:

I find sold Reverb listings by googling item x and then looking at the PHOTO section that indicate Reverb and click through until I get to their site.

Sounds like you're selling there - so if low fees are the least of it, what comes before that?

A Phonic stencil kit priced higher than the Phonics they pretend they are ? Insane fits.