Yes there is a slowdown across almost every sector (except free money for Ukraine and what it buys- politicians and military hardware).
I have noticed something interesting: In October there were a number of good deals available (under 10K for a set of Ref 250SEs which I'm in the market for). I waited for sellers who needed money to sell in the 8s. (Dealers pay less than that for spec. purchases BTW) All of a sudden around Christmas there were 11 listings on HiFi Shark all looking for 15-18K ! I surmised that it was opportunistic sellers hoping to catch a Santa Clause rally.
Now it's late January and lo and behold Ref 250s are back under 10K. Whoda thunk it?
I expect more price reductions in older AR equipment for 3 reasons: 1) the new 150 Monoblocks are coming out and guys with no budget are lined up waving cash at ARC dealers. Many will trade in older high end pieces which will be sold off at a good number once the dealer gets sick of dead inventory. Before then expect stupid asking prices by dealers looking for the greater fool. 2) There is a global recession. It touches all but the very wealthy- the Billionaire class does not price shop for used audio gear. and; 3) Winter is the time we tend to listen to our systems the most. Once Mr. Sunshine warms up the land people spend more time outside and not in their listening rooms.