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Why is used audio equipment so undesirable?

I’ve upgraded many things over the past couple years and quite frankly there is limited interest and not much to be gained by getting rid of unused equipment. My dealer doesn’t want it. And it’s all fairly new stuff within a few years. It’s easier just to box it and store it away and give it to someone if a situation ever arises. Selling it is ridiculous as I’m lucky to get 30 or 40% Plus all the hassle negotiating when selling, so I keep it.

It’s risky buying used audio equipment so there is no interest even for very nice units. So I’ve got nearly half dozen pieces taking up a lot of space all sitting in their original boxes and maybe next time I buy some new speakers I’ll prepare a list and get a few thousand dollars after paying nearly 4 to 5 time more when new.

Would I buy a used preamp or speakers for $15-$20,000? that might be very risky. So I guess I understand why used audio is not that desirable. After buying something used, you may wonder if it would have sounded different if I bought it new? And there in lies the quandry

 

Much easier buying a used car.

 

emergingsoul
oddiofyl's avatar
oddiofyl
3,450 posts
 

My system would definitely not be as good if I didn't buy used or demo.   At this point most of my gear is new, but if not for buying used gear I would not have moved up the food chain.   The only thing I have purchased recently without using money from the sale of other gear is the Toolshed Amps 300b I'm having built. 

Not sure if I'll sell my Quicksilver amps and one of my spare preamps,  but if I do it will put $2500 or so back in the Toy Fund.   If not it will be the foundation for a second system.   Not sure on that yet. 

baylinor's avatar
baylinor
1,195 posts
 

This is a weird post. I buy used often with usually no issue and when there is one, no issue returning it. I also have no issue selling used gear at usually 30 to 40% off what I paid for new. Only items I can't seem to move is headphones and cartridges.

petg60
1,486 posts
 

It’s easier just to box it and store it away and give it to someone if a situation ever arises. Selling it is ridiculous as I’m lucky to get 30 or 40% Plus all the hassle negotiating when selling, so I keep it.

I know exactly what you mean but lets face it, used gear depreciates fast, how much depends on brand and category, unless vintage where you can sell at a much higher price compared to original retail.

On the other hand the best values are found in used gear market for many users look after their equipment. So if within budget go for it.

And yes buying second hand car is more risky.

 

corelli
941 posts
 

Buying used used to go against my grain.  Not anymore.  Buy wisely.  Take care of the piece. Sell it for what you payed for it.  It's a great way to play for nearly free.

dayglow
1,729 posts
 

The used HEA market is the best barometer for what is a worthy component. There are exceptions like the KEF LS50 flooding the market due to many of the buyers not having proper system(quality) matching. For a 2-3 year period I was looking for a KEF 205/2 in sycamore/rosewood veneer was willing to pay top dollar none appeared? That ship has sailed but there are several items I check on a daily/weekly basis. Bottom line is the vast majority of components are bought due to hype from various sources without the buyer putting in study time. After the hype has passed the truth of the component has been revealed.

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