Buyer's guide
Outlet vs ex-demo: what is the difference?
Both are sold at a discount and both come from dealers and distributors, but they are not the same thing. An outlet product is new. An ex-demo unit has been played.
Outlet: new, at a bargain price
It is a new, unused product. It is discounted for reasons that have nothing to do with the unit itself: the model or series changes, a finish is discontinued, the distributor has too much stock or the box got damaged in the warehouse.
The price is set by the distributor or dealer. Some outlet discounts are small and some are huge.
Ex-demo: used by professionals
It is a unit that has been used to show customers: in the shop, in the listening room or at a show. It has been played, but always by professionals.
That is why it usually carries a bigger discount than an outlet unit of the same model, and why every listing says whether it has any marks.
And a third kind: offers
Hifi-Max also lists offers: new products a dealer has given a special price. Like outlet, they are new; what differs is the reason for the discount.
Which one suits you?
If you want to be the first to use it, look at outlet and offers.
If you want the biggest possible discount on equipment that has only been in professional hands, look at ex-demo.
Either way, check the warranty stated on the listing and the cost of shipping to your country.
Frequently asked questions
Is an outlet hi-fi product second-hand?
No. It is new and unused. It is cheaper because of the model, the finish, the stock level or the packaging — not because of the unit.
Which has the bigger discount, outlet or ex-demo?
Usually ex-demo, because it has been used. But each seller decides: some outlet discounts are very large too.
How do I know what I am buying?
Every Hifi-Max listing carries a label: Outlet, Ex-demo or Special Offer. If the shop gives more detail, such as condition, notes or real photos, it goes in the listing; anything that isn’t there, ask the shop before you buy.