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Need some advice. Trying to help a neighbor in need.....

Folks:

I come seeking help for a dear neighbor.

Husband is suffering from Alzheimer's and recently his kind wife had to place in him a care facility.  2 years ago I posted on AVS to get some help with installing a new fuse panel in one of the amps.  That board helped me a bit and we took care of the blown fuse. 

Well, I'm now here seeking more advice as the Husband is no longer listening to the equipment because he is living in the care center and understandably the wife needs the cash from this equipment.

The husband was a big audiophile back in the day and has a wonderful collection of vinyl (over 1000 pristine records...very impressive). About 15 or so years ago, well before he fell ill, he assembled a terrific audio room for listening.  He has:

Sonus Faber Elipsa left and right floor standing speakers in perfect condition.
Musical Fidelity kW Tri-vista Monoblock Power amplifiers (both channels)
KWP PSU
kWP PREAMP and amplifier
Shunyata Research Hydra power conditioner Model 8 (I think)
All the expensive cables and stands that go with it.
Over 1000 vinyl in excellent condition.

I just came back from their house after taking photos of all of the equipment. My next move is to try to help sell everything for the "right" price.  I want to help her move these wonderful assets--but not get taken.  

She has original boxes for everything and I'm telling you, they've been well cared for. 

I was considering listing things here on Audiogon; however, I assume the Sonus Faber's alone would list around 7 to 8K.  Add on to that Musical Fidelity set (only 70 or so were made) has to be sought-after items would also be rather expensive. 

That said,  I just don't know how comfortable I am suggesting she use this service if I can't really get a feel for the protection that she could have to ensure she doesn't get taken in this process.

Just curious what most of you would do in this situation.  How to best liquidate these items for her. 
tkhanson
jperry
2,454 posts
 
Where are you located?

With that information someone could recommend a local dealer or offer help locally.
millercarbon's avatar
millercarbon
12,531 posts
 
Yeah, thanks guys, problem with doing this at work, every once in a while I have to go and do some actual, you know, work. Its distracting but what're you gonna do? Good to know you guys got my back. 

This one I was having a hard time because of the situation. To do it right could call for a little Agon, a little eBay, discogs.com and maybe even craig's list. Advantages and disadvantages to each. Its just hard enough selling stuff like this one at a time and when you know what you've got and what you're doing, let alone under these circumstances. Any insight you want just let me know.
tkhanson OP
1 posts
 
Thanks, folks. We are located in Utah. 
deadhead1000's avatar
deadhead1000
717 posts
 
I would suggest contacting an Estate Dealer or two, although it's not a full Estate, it's enough value. They have the contacts to price everything and find buyers. Yes, they will take their cut, but you know, think of the trouble and effort to price, post, package and get paid for all of that equipment. And the LP's? Sell one or even a few at a time or try and sell and ship that much in one sale safely? And if even if one sale goes south or something doesn't sell, you'll end up with less money then just paying their commission. My two cents, I am not am Estate Dealer. 
scowler1
55 posts
 
I have dealt with The Music Room recently with very satisfactory results. I believe that they would be very fair to your neighbor and their process is very upfront. You provide a description of the equipment and they make an offer. I considered it very quick, easy, and was paid promptly as promised. TMR is not the only option in the marketplace, just the only one I have personally dealt with. Given your neighbor’s circumstances, I can’t imagine her doing much better on her own. Not sure if they have an interest in old vinyl, but I know there are many collectors who would be interested. The best prospect for that type of sale would probably be a local collector.
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