It's not hard to find a vintage hi-fi if you know where to look. In fact, there are many online marketplaces that deal exclusively in used audio gear. However, not all of these marketplaces are created equal. Some offer better deals than others, and some have more comprehensive inventories. So, how do you know which one is right for you?
Marketplaces and how to find deals on vintage gear.
What's more is that you can find some seriously cool vintage gear in all shapes and sizes. There are amp heads, preamps, tube amps; even solid state models! The best part about hunting down these rare items? You never know what might turn up—so get preparation before starting your search by learning as much information on makes/models available so pricing becomes easier too...
As more and more people are becoming interested in vintage equipment, the market has responded by creating new online retailers who refurbish or guarantee their products. This is critical for those looking to buy pre-owned models because you never know how old these things might be!
The secondary market is a great place to find deals on vintage gear. There are many websites where you can buy used equipment, and we've listed our favorite brands below for your convenience!
High-End Audio Equipment Online Sellers and Auctions
US Audio Mart – https://www.usaudiomart.com/
With over 250,000 monthly unique visitors and 700 posting members each week US Audio Mart is America's largest free hi-fi audio classifieds site.
Audiogon – https://www.audiogon.com/
The community that's been around since the late 90s, Audiogon is one-stop shop for all your high end audio needs. They have a wide range of products and services related to sound quality so if you're looking for anything from cables or speakers then this site will be able help!
Reverb – https://reverb.com/c/home-audio
When you're in need of quality music equipment, there's no better place than Used Music Gear. They have an expansive assortment that covers every genre and style imaginable- all at competitive prices!
eBay – https://www.ebay.com/
eBay is a fantastic resource for finding deals on old-fashioned hi fi. You can start by just searching vintage and seeing what's available, or head straight to hunting down specific brands/models that interest you - we recommend setting up alerts if there are products in waiting!
Etsy- https://www.etsy.com/
Vintage hi-fi is one of the best spots to find great deals on oldies but goodies, and esty has all sorts of fantastic resources for finding that perfect piece. You can start by just searching “vintage” or look through specific brands/models if you want more flexibility in your search results; we recommend saving this page as a favorite so when those models pop up they will be at top priority!
Local Marketplaces
Craigslist - https://orangecounty.craigslist.org/
Often times, people will try to offload their gently used audio gear on Craigslist. You can find some great deals if you're willing to do a little bit of digging. Just be sure to use caution when meeting strangers
Offerup - https://offerup.com/
Offerup can be great for finding vintage gear since you can avoid paying for shipping costs, and you may be able to haggle a bit on the price.
Find Local Items
Estates Sales- https://www.estatesales.net/
Focusing on estate sales is a great way to find vintage hi-fi without having to do too much digging. Just Check the Images and Description on the Estate I've Found many Treasures at these Places
Quality Hifi Vintage Brands
Amplifiers / Receivers
When you buy an amplifier or receiver, be sure to check it out completely before buying. The noise produced by moving controls is usually minor and can easily fixed with a product like Caig "Deoxit". If there's no solution for your problem after trying these methods-or if they don't work at all! I highly suggest going into further detail about how each part works on different types devices in order make more informed decisions when shopping around 
- Sansui
- Pioneer
- Harman Kardon
- Kenwood
- Sony
- Marantz
Speakers
Inspect the woofer surrounds carefully. You may find cracks, which will affect sound quality significantly and might not be visible at first glance. Listen for differences between both speakers before buying - even slightest sounds can make a difference! Some early models had level controls on them; these are problematic in some cases because they often fail after extended use
- Klipsch
- Bowers & Wilkens
- Acoustic Research
- JBL
- Polk
- Advent
- Boston Acoustics
- KEF
Record Player
The type of turntable you buy is important for getting the best sound. A flimsy, lightweight plastic one with poor quality bearings and vibrations will not provide accurate playback so it's key to find something like this has high precision construction from start-to finish which translates into better sounding records!
Get Your Vintage Audio Equipment Restored by Professionals
Taking care of your audio equipment is an important part in making sure it lasts as long and keeps performing the way you want. If this sounds like something that concerns you, then don't try to do repairs on historic electronics by yourself- Bring them into someone who knows what they're doing!
Sounds Classic - Sounds Classic sells, buys, and restores audio equipment of all kinds, from the super coveted to the dusty audio gear
Austin Stereo - Austin Stereo is such an in-demand restoration business that they currently have a 5-month waitlist; yet, if you can wait to have your piece worked on by experts, then you can contact them via their website to get a quote and added to their wait list.
Conclusion
Now that you've reached the end of this guide, we hope you feel more confident in your ability to purchase vintage hi-fi gear. Remember to do your research ahead of time, and always be wary of sellers who are trying to take advantage of you. With a little bit of effort, you'll be able to find the perfect piece
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