[barrynsue]

Always willing through my .02 in and thanks.

There is a big difference in buying quality and going into someone's basement and finding a bunch of unfinished projects that take forever. Starts out as fun but can quickly wear you out. How do I know? Other than the large collection I purchased, I also have done the above and it can get overwhelming not to mention frustrating.

I helped this poor woman out who's husband had dementia and a ton of what I would come to consider JUNK. Yes, I made a few bucks but I had to store it (still have most of it) and with the exception of a few quality pieces, most of the rest are things that while they do have value, I was not interested in it. A lot of test equipment, old electronic parts, cumputer stuff, etc. It just got in my way and remains there somewhat although I have either given or thrown away much of it. Some will cringe knowing that there may have been some good and useful stuff but I was so overwhelmed I couldn't deal with it anymore. I am STILL feeling this way and have cut back my selling tremendously as I am just burned out. And it took us two full days. The old lady was smart as she made some money and got us to clean out her basement!

Packing alone will frustrate the heck out of you if you do it properly not to mention all of the moving, cleaning, repairing, pictures, questions, posting of auctions, etc. that you do.

So did I may a good move when I purchased the collection? Absolutely, as it has brought me more friends around the world than I could have ever imagined. I feel like there are very few places where I could travel and not have a someone who would be willing to assist me if I were in their neck of the woods and have reaped those benefits as far away as Venice, Italy! The money has been quite good also but that has really been secondary. I have had a unique opportunity to have owned and listened to some (most) of the finest vintage audio equipment ever produced. That was my goal and it has ben accomplished. I have kept a few of the items for my peronal use although not very much. More of the radio collection which I knew absolutely nothing about remains in my home. Looking back, I should have kept a few more pieces but you can't keep it all.

IT has been a great ride and would have been quite a bit easier IF I had a partner. The gentleman who does my repairs was super helpful in helping through as he grew up repairng all of this same stuff in the 60's and early 70's. Gave me great counsel but happens to live in Kansas. If I would have had someone like him here in VA, it would have been so much easier.

Sorry for this rant as I will stop now. The story however of all of my dealings is long and so much has happened because of it. This is not to discourage anyone but understand what you are getting into when you happen to see this dark basement filled with STUFF. You know it may be the Mother Lode but can also be somewhat of a folly.

Tread carefully and best of luck!