What's going on with the audio market?

"This stuff has a long lifespan, unlike a cellphone"

Hence the MkII dinner bells. "Come and get it!"

What I don't fully understand is how fragile the used market in the wake of audiogon changes. It appears to me the trading is way down; I have to wait forever to a particular item to be listed on any site.

This may be the "Big Payoff" for us loyals who spent our disposable income on gear instead of boring things like houses. If you've paid your dues and know what's what, you can (finally) pick up some bargains and have a reference quality system for half off.
Now if we would legalize weed, I could fade away in peace with the ultimate tweek.

Weed is legal in Colorado and I never heard anyone pay attention to it in Wyoming, Alaska and parts of California. 

These locations are too isolated. I want to be in the Nashville area (the hub of the wheel) which is a days drive from most anywhere in the country. I hear it will be a long time until any pot progress is made there (Bible belt) short of the Feds easing-up. Poor Me.

I have been into music and equipment that makes recorded music sound great since the 8th grade (now 30 years since college graduation :)). I have really enjoyed picking and choosing/upgrading my audio gear over the years. As I became more aware of what I liked, I talked to dealers and more learned audiophiles than myself. I have put together a system now that I really enjoy and do not have "upgradinitis". Well, maybe a liitle bug to research more info on cables that do not cost more than my BMW. Even with the false Stock Market highs, the economy for the middle class is not healthy. It seems more dealers are concentrating on a few $100,00.00 sales than many $5,000.00 sales. That said, one can buy (either used or new) a great sounding system for a decent price. I read but do not believe audio magazine reviews and hyped up marketing mumbo-jumbo. It is a tough sell to the younger generations who cannot fathom to actually sit down and listen with heart open to great music. They love their music on the go, at raves/concerts and driving in cars.