July 25, 2005

I go to lots of garage and estate sales and see audio equipment there, some of which is obviously very old. Q: Does this vintage equipment have any value even if it doesn't work? The sellers always say that it works, but who knows if it really does.

Jerry H.

A: Vintage audio equipment certainly has value, especially if it's in working order, and sometimes even if it's not. To find out what working equipment might be worth, try doing a search on individual models on eBay. If electronics don't work but use vacuum tubes, the tubes may have greater value than the piece of equipment itself, even if it did work. Speakers are tricky because technology has progressed so much over just the past decade that even inexpensive speakers today will outperform much pricier ones from many years ago. Also, the foam surrounds of the drivers can rot away, necessitating replacement.

As a rule of thumb, grab anything with the McIntosh name on it and any electronics that use tubes. With speakers, have a close look at them and even play them if possible. I went to an estate sale a few weeks ago at which a fellow paid $150 for vintage products he could sell easily for $1000.

...Marc Mickelson