Investigation Report
Generated on Jan 26, 2026
fantastic-products eBay Seller – VTG Sony CFS-1000 Boombox Listing
https://www.ebay.com/itm/206028009609Why we think so?
This listing is for a vintage Sony CFS-1000 AM/FM Stereo Cassette Recorder from the eBay seller "fantastic-products." The product is priced at $45, which is at the lower end of the market range for similar used models. The seller has a feedback score of 100 but does not currently display detailed ratings or follower counts. The item has already sold 85 units, which is strong for a niche, vintage item. There are several high-resolution, original product images and a clear location listed (Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA). The seller does not accept returns, which increases risk for buyers. No evidence links this seller or this product to counterfeit activity or fake reviews, though more transparency in seller profile data would strengthen buyer confidence. ⚠️
Risk Insights
Strong Transaction History
- 85 units sold—a high number for a vintage boombox.
- Product images and details match sales history.
No Returns Accepted
- Sellers refusing returns can increase buyer risk.
- Ensure product details and photos are saved before purchase.
Price In Line With Market
- $45 is average for a used Sony CFS-1000 in working condition.
- Market comparison shows no excessive discounting or markups.
Category Scores
Red Flags & Warnings
- The seller does not accept returns on this listing, which may increase buyer risk if the item does not match the description.
Detailed Checks & Insights
0-100 Scale
Seller Identity and Profile Transparency
Score: 60
Seller Identity and Profile Transparency
"More transparency—such as feedback by category and recent comments—would strengthen legitimacy. No evidence of fake persona or short-lived account."
Reason: Seller's public profile lacks store branding and detailed feedback breakdown. However, the feedback score is not zero, and a large transaction count (85 sold) builds trust.
Seller Reputation and Feedback
Score: 80
Seller Reputation and Feedback
"While the public review total is sparse, no known red flags are present, and transaction volume is unusually robust for a niche audio item."
Reason: The seller has a feedback score of 100 and 85 units sold, with link to feedback page. No pattern of disputes or negative reviews found at this time.
Product Description and Photos Authenticity
Score: 90
Product Description and Photos Authenticity
"Photos capture physical imperfections and angles, which are typical for individual-owner vintage electronics and suggest the seller owns the item."
Reason: Listing includes multiple high-quality, original images of the actual item and a clear product description, which reduces risk of stock-photo scams.
Price Consistency vs Other Markets
Score: 90
Price Consistency vs Other Markets
"No evidence of price gouging or artificially low prices intended to scam. Market alignment verified."
Reason: The listed $45 price closely matches those from other reputable sellers for a functional, used Sony CFS-1000 boombox.
Counterfeit/Manipulation Risk
Score: 80
Counterfeit/Manipulation Risk
"Generic warnings about review manipulation and counterfeits found for eBay, but not tied to this seller or item. Item-specific risk is low."
Reason: No counterfeit or manipulation flags are associated with this seller or product based on public data and online scam reports.
Returns, Fulfillment & Terms
Score: 50
Returns, Fulfillment & Terms
"No return policy may be common for vintage electronics, but still a point of buyer caution—use secure payment methods."
Reason: The seller does not accept returns, which is less favorable for buyers and increases potential risk if item arrives not as described.
Your Next Steps
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1
Check recent seller feedback for issues with similar sales or unresolved disputes.
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2
If you have concerns, use PayPal or a credit card for extra buyer protection.
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3
Save the listing details and photos in case a dispute is needed later, as seller does not accept returns.
Key Evidence & Citations
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eBay Listing: VTG Sony CFS-1000 Boombox
⤷ Primary product data, seller feedback, quantity sold, and listing images reviewed.
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Price Comparisons for Sony CFS-1000
⤷ The $45 price is consistent with typical sales on other legitimate platforms for working, used units.
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