performance vs. resale

I'm not sure by what criteria Timrhu determines that tube gear is overpriced. Relative to what?

Tvad, none of the three types of equipment would be overpriced according to your definition unless they exceeded market value. But they are all overpriced relative to my desire to own them. I don't look for esoteric equipment as it is usually expensive (not overpriced). Have no interest in equipment that's been modded. As for tubes, I have no interest in owning equipment that requires the level of attention that tube gear does. The tube thing is not based on sonics as I have stated in previous threads, the best sounding system I've ever heard was using Large Cary tube mono amps. I don't have any ill feelings towards those who swear by their esoteric, modded or tube gear, just not my interest.
I thought that statement was buried in my post but I should have realized someone would call me on it.

01-06-08: Pawlowski6132 said:
"Jaybo; to use your analogy, when I'm buying equipment, I'm really just dating. I already know I'm not going to be married to it. I think most people here (which is what keeps this site going) buy and sell equipment as a hobby. I like to try lots of different stuff in my room/system and couldn't do it if I didn't take resale into consideration."

Speak for yourself. ;-)

I think there's a substantial constituency here a a'gon for the discussions and occasional purchase or sale. When I buy, I buy to hold for the long-term (usually several years to a couple of decades).

Oh, BTW, I've been married almost 40-years and my 5.0 Mustang had 16-years of daily driving on it when I let it go.

Dave

Perception of desirability as you might get from mag rave reviews and these audio chat sites means nothing. That is for sure.
You'll find out the real desirability when you try and sell it. I was interested in the LTD Mistral LE or whatever upgraded version. I thought this was a popular amp. Boy, was I wrong.
Got a "new" demo for about 40% off retail. Figured I could'nt go wrong with that price.
Didn't like it, natch, and was SHOCKED to find all I got was one offer for $300 less than I paid. The rest were even lower than that! Luckily my credit card's term allow for 30 day return so I returned it less a $100 restocking.

After years swapping & accumulating equipment, I found that I could modify so-called "Class A" stereo equipment to perform at a much higher level. This has returned me to the original DNA of the hobby in DIY, and has extended the life of all equipment currently in my system to the point that resale value is not a concern.