With the chip shortage, nearly all quality head units are out of stock, however I’ve noticed on crutchfield that a good amount of scratch and dent head units are available. Anybody have good luck with these?

Over the years so many companies went under because of Amazon. In simplest terms, obviously there's a little more to it than just cheap competition. But Crutchfield makes it every year. I remember ordering their mail catalog magazine as a teen to window shop. I always used other sources in the early 2000s like I think Onlinecarstereo and a few others. I never bought from Crutchfield because I could always find much cheaper elsewhere.

Why do you think they have made it over the years?

I purchased the Sony XBR-55X810C from Crutchfield and ended up opting for the scratch and dent store as many reviews led me to believe that it is frequently just packaging damage or small scratches in the worst case.

I received the TV today and I saw some damage to the box, nothing that bad. After unboxing, the TV still looked good and I didn't suspect anything that would require a return.

Unfortunately, when I powered on the TV, this is what I saw. http://imgur.com/DSIMUzV

I called Crutchfield and they are paying for the return and refunding me completely but it is just a bit disappointing. I may end up going with the 850C anyway but will probably wait until after Christmas.

Just thought I would share my experience.

I see a lot of discussion about open-box and refurbished from retailers but not for scratch&dent items. What are people's experiences like with items in this condition? In terms of quality, is it safe to assume they are functionally equal to typical open-box but with cosmetic defect?

What are peoples level of comfort with these categories at Crutchfield? Refurb is the cheapest option but I worry that if a unit already had issues once it will have more down the line.

I see that refurbished Denon is available at the same price from both Amazon and Crutchfield. Will there be any difference (e.g. quality, warrenty, accessories etc.) if I buy from Amazon vs Crutchfield? Same price, and the Amazon listing(https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CTTWYXV/ref=dp_cr_wdg_tit_rfb) says refurbished by Denon.

Secondly, I see that the new x3400h new is around $599, refurbished is $499 and there is an open box for $557.

Any recommendations on which might be a better value purchase?

This will be a step towards my first ever home theater setup.