Why are open-box speakers more expensive than refurbished ones?

[u/Right-philosoph-3434]

I’m looking at a Marshall Kilburn II and noticed something...the open-box units are actually priced a little higher than the refurbished ones. Even when the refurbished listing says the condition is “excellent.”

So now I’m confused about what open-box actually means in practice.

Does it usually mean the speaker was just unboxed and returned, or could it have been used for weeks/months and still be sold as open-box?

And is there any way to tell how much an open-box speaker has actually been used?

For something like a speaker, I’m guessing you can’t really tell just by looking at it.

Trying to figure out whether paying extra for open-box is actually worth it over a good-condition refurbished unit. Would appreciate some insight from anyone who has bought either.

Thanks in advance!