Sam S.

Shakey---I read on the forum from other members that they are an authorized dealer. Teaman in a recent thread -- I didn't investigate further. I've so far had one conversation with them, and e-mailed the pictures. I haven't heard back yet, but wanted advice on the damage from other forum members in the meantime. Yes, I agree, it seems pretty simple to ship replacements, but the person I talked to on the phone said they were no longer available from them. Maybe because of the price. I dunno. I wonder if others that got in on this deal have had any problems with damage, or if any have arrived yet.

Thanks for all the replies and second opinions. All the input is highly valued and I'm glad I posted to ask for feedback! Yes, authorized dealer as far as I know (as others have posted here). I've wanted Forte iii's since they first came out, but couldn't afford the price tag, so I got in on the recent Adorama $900 each deal. I did contact them, sent pictures, and they've been helpful so far, but apparently don't have Cherry in stock to send as a replacement. I'll see what happens in the next few days. Thanks for all the suggestions. And yes, I would be obsessed with the imperfections.

Ok - so I was able to get in on a recent sale on the forte iii's. Received them today, boxes looked just fine but when I opened em up, one was roughed up pretty good. The other thing is that I noticed some discoloration in the stain that looks to me like it would have had to have left the factory that way -- doesn't look like shipping dent, or ding. Maybe not. At any rate, contacted the retailer, and they say they no longer have Forte iii in Cherry, so I can either return both, or they will contact me after review of the pics for a discount if I keep both. Here's the two part question --- (1) Has anyone ever had shipping damage like this, and should I even consider keeping them, even with a discount. If so, what would be reasonable? I realize that's a difficult question. Worried of course about something else being outta whack, but they sound great. (2) I've done quite a bit of woodworking, but my guess is trying to fill or sand out, then stain these dents and dings would likely make them look even worse. (assuming the discount was substantial) Anyone tried any such repairs, or should I just do a straight return of both of them and start over. I can't afford these at the normal retail price - so it'd likely be wait and watch again. Any suggestions would be appreciated. I listened to these briefly tonight, and I have to say I'd definitely like to keep a set of these --- just worried about the damage.

Another goodwill auction, ending tomorrow. Pics don't show cabinets real well, but looks to be in average shape. https://www.shopgoodwill.com/Item/54400341

Yeah, but in the ad "she" says to text "him" (her soon to be ex) -- and not her, and lists "his" number. Also according to the ad, she also says that he thinks they are worth $2,000 each, so it's unlikely if someone in the area called or texted they'd be able to snag them for a bargain. She likely posted the ad just to get a bunch of potential buyers to bombard his phone with texts or calls -- or maybe as a threat to him.

Sarah McLachlan Norah Jones (recommend Day Breaks)

Saw these on Goodwill auctions. I bit far for me to drive (16 hrs round trip), not to mention I'd have to find a place for them. Looks like a potential good deal for someone close/local to watch, and they look in OK shape. https://www.shopgoodwill.com/Item/54184554

I thought I might e-mail after the weekend/after the g-sale is over. I'm in Lincoln so it's a 4 hr drive. Maybe they'd meet partway. Bummer because last week I drove right thru Wichita.

No affiliation for me, and a little to far to drive (4 HRS) to check out, but if anyone is in Wichita, might be worth checking out this garage sale. Ad says H700, which I think would be Heresy's. Good luck. LINK

Thanks! I was actually able to get in touch with the seller this AM, and he verified they are forte ii's, with no crites mods. But...he's asking $800, "firm". That's more than I'd want to spend, and frankly, more than I think they'd be worth ($400-$500 depending on the finish condition). So it's time to keep looking. Seems to me like many asking prices seem fairly high for forte i or ii, since the iii was released, unless you live in Florida. This forum is the best!

Hi: Can anyone help me out identifying these? I noticed them on a local CL, about an hour away (estate sale), and wonder if it's worth the drive. I'm likely interested if Chorus, Forte, or Quartet; likely not interested if they are KG series. Probably difficult to tell, but worth a shot for someone with better knowledge than me. Thanks!