To me the value in vintage quality gear is in knowing the items to seek, understand they will most likely require service due to their age, and avoid spending really big bucks on comparable new products.
A Threshold SA3 or Krell KSA50 or vintage Kondo tube amp is a great piece. They are especially attractive when compared to the new prices. A used Ongaku can cost around 20k; servicing/upgrades will add around 5000 to that cost. A new similar product from Kondo San starts at 40 large. That is the motivation; same thing applies for something like a Levinson 27.5 vs a new/used current model Levinson.
With the rare exception of collectors it is the price that matters. When the older pieces are serviced/upgraded they are very close to most comparable modern replacement units.
Stick good Bilsteins and quality wheels/tires/sway bars on a 1970 Chevelle SS350 and it will handle right up there with a modern similar sized car. Same principle.
A Threshold SA3 or Krell KSA50 or vintage Kondo tube amp is a great piece. They are especially attractive when compared to the new prices. A used Ongaku can cost around 20k; servicing/upgrades will add around 5000 to that cost. A new similar product from Kondo San starts at 40 large. That is the motivation; same thing applies for something like a Levinson 27.5 vs a new/used current model Levinson.
With the rare exception of collectors it is the price that matters. When the older pieces are serviced/upgraded they are very close to most comparable modern replacement units.
Stick good Bilsteins and quality wheels/tires/sway bars on a 1970 Chevelle SS350 and it will handle right up there with a modern similar sized car. Same principle.