What's up with the ridiculous offers?!?

While I think many of the observations are correct, I also think part of the problem is that there are more uninformed folks frequenting Audiogon.

These folks are familiar with Craiglist etc., don't subscribe to the Bluebook, don't educate themselves, and figure "what the hey." As an aside I've made some offers that were turned down rudely even though they were quite reasonable offers given the recent prices of that equipment (not anything like what you describe).

Maybe it's our times, "But as we arrive at the house of the water sign. We're living in strange times."

We are living in dangerous and uncertain times and that is putting it mildly. People that have disposable income are now thinking twice before parting with it and the ones that don't are making unreasonable offers. I have only purchased from sellers that have priced their gear reasonably. If it offers no synergy or I get bored with it  I could pass it on to the next buyer for a sensible price. If the seller has something I want real bad I will offer their asking price.

Well, it's bazaar economy not patrician house of culture, so any offer and counter-offer is legitimate. I don't like it and almost never bargain, however I rarely buy and never sell here - I put things on ebay auction and let the auction run.

I always respond to all offers, the ones I get most most kick out of, are the ones that low ball and then expect the seller to pick up shipping and Paypal fees as well. Normally I will decline or make a counter offer, and then the potential buyer disappers. These kind of offers, are put -forth only to see how desperate the seller is to sell that item. Sell yes...give away no.  

I think that the spate of lowball offers is derived from a recent article regarding the markup on "consumer electronics" and a pending lawsuit by Radio Shack against its suppliers.  There's a post somewhere on here about that...

While I don't begrudge any dealer from making a return on investment, I am curious as to why there appears to be what in other industries would be termed price-fixing by the manufacturers.  A manufacturer that restricts its dealer network from advertising prices anywhere should be questioned about such policies because MY money is just as important as their's is.  

Back to subject:  When I tender an offer to a fellow member I explain in detail my reasons why;  bluebook reference,  Paypal fees,  shipping, and anything else I feel is pertinent to the item itself.  I've had perhaps two or three offers rejected,  then countered,  usually resulting in a purchase.  

Most members here belong for a reason.  That reason is that most members here take care of their gear,  some even give up children,  spouses,  smoking and drinking to ensure the condition of it. 

Many ads here do contain the caveat that "lowballers will be ignored" or "not responded to."  It's worked for me.