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High End is Dead?

Browsing used audio sites such as Audiogon and the Marts, high end gear ads are dominated by several dealers. Non-dealer ads are usually people trying to push 15+ year old off-brand junk at 60-70% of MSRP (when they were new). They don't sell anything. You could slash Wilsons, Magicos, etc, 50% off retail and no one will buy them.

No one buys if it costs more than 1k. It's not that they're not interested -- the ads get plenty of views. It's that the asking prices are just way over the ability of buyers to pay. Fact is, if you see a high end piece for sale it's probably by a dealer, often times trying to push it at 15% off retail because its a trade in, but also often they are taking a good chunk off the price 30, 40 sometimes 50% off. They can be famous brands with a million positive reviews. No buyers.

Are we just poor, and that's all there is to it? 
madavid0

Showing 1 response by liamowen

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liamowen
70 posts
 
I am fine with the question "Is high end dead?"  I don't think the poster is picking a fight, but is making a point with his question.

For me, this is the time of building my nice system.  But, it took me until I was 55 before I could afford to do it, and even with that, I tend to buy used or demo gear.  Otherwise, I would not be able to afford anywhere near as nice of a system.

I like tube amps (and preamps) and vinyl-- even with it's associated quirks and maintenance.  But, most of my friends can't even contemplate a $1,600 turntable, let alone a $1,600  machine to clean records.  I think high end audio is  kind of a solo, self-indulgent hobby, which makes it inherently a small demographic group.  Couple that with the time we have available to actually listen to music, and it's no surprise that audiophiles tend to be nearly all old guys.

Anyway, I like this forum, have developed some friendships from it, and have received lots of help from the more experienced folks who participate.  They have kept me from making expensive, disastrous gear decisions, and have nudged me in the right direction.  So, I'm good.  Thanks.
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