Startups tend to die (not go anywhere) after being acquired by eBay. I'm just hoping this isn't another one of those cases.

I don't think eBay can really outdo Amazon. The only thing that could happen is that Amazon could stop "killing it" allowing their service to degrade until it's at the level of everyone else. I always price compare when buying, and I usually end up going with Amazon. Usually because they are cheaper, but sometimes because of the convenience (long history, shipping speed) even when they aren't the cheapest option. eBay doesn't have that kinda hook. Also, every time I buy something on eBay there ends up being something wrong with it. Even these days.