more like you sound like a CL spammer.

sites like that are great if you happen to live in a large urban area, but if you're on the outskirts or in a rural area your options become far more limited. it's also far easier to get scammed through sites like kijiji or craigslist where the sites are rather clear about being absolved of any responsibility in regards to any failed or less than satisfactory deal.

the ONLY time i would use those sites is to buy something locally where i can check it out first hand, i would NEVER even consider getting something shipped from those sites.

A Stage Custom is a $900 set. And Pearl Forum is stupid garbage.

1. No. Its not. You can EASILY find a brand new 5 piece Yamaha Stage Custom for under 700$. My local music store Drumworld has been selling 2 models each for 650$. Anyone who pays 900$ for a new 5 piece YSC is plain stupid.

2. And no the Forum is a very respectable beginner kit. For the low price of 500$ the kit does wonders. Hardware s generally garbage for all entry level sets, but the actually drum quality is not bad at all. They will last you years if you replace hardware and keep up with maintenance.

I dont know what you are basing your opinions off, but I have owned both sets in my life time and they have served there purpose quite well, with the forum definitely being my favorite of the two.

I bought my sons Fender Mustang (new) off ebay from a dealer with terrific feedback. It saved me a fortune and is a decent axe.
The thing is, most of the time you`ll probably be ok, if you know exactly what you want. i.e. make, model. However you`ll be fked if the neck is warped or twisted - these guys are not official dealers, so check their refund policy. Most other issues can be resolved/fixed up and you may be better off $$ wise.
The Best option (i reckon) is to buy second hand and try yourself before buying. Not always easy if you live in remote areas with limited sales.
Good luck.

i havent personally bought anything myself but i think if the guy seems credible and you arent getting anything too expensive it should be fine.
Most people arent set on ripping other people off

Had a friend buy a Bass on of Ebay. Turned out well, and he pawned it for more than he peid for it. lol.