Great for finding "sleepers," though gear is rarely tested. What to Inspect
Look for leaking or bulging on older amplifiers.
Buying used stereo equipment is the best way to get high-end sound without the premium price tag. Older gear often features superior build quality and a "warm" analog sound that modern entry-level plastic systems can’t match. Where to Look
Ensure speaker wire clips or binding posts aren't snapped. The "Golden Era" Brands Receivers: Marantz, Pioneer, Sansui, and McIntosh. Turntables: Technics, Thorens, and Dual. Speakers: JBL, Klipsch, KEF, and Bowers & Wilkins.
Audiogon and Canuck Audio Mart cater to serious enthusiasts.
