Researching value of two pairs of hi-end speakers


I am inquiring about two pairs of extremely valuable loudspeakers, both of which belonged to the late great recording engineer Stan Ricker, who is known to everyone in the profession. On behalf of his daughter, who is now owner, i am researching their possible market value as she intends to sell them to an audio enthusiast who will put them to good use. I seek professional advice as to a reasonable asking price, and especially a realistic minimum. All components appear to be in excellent condition.

Two tall triaxial speakers are custom made (no brand name) and comprise one of only two pairs that were ever manufactured (the other pair was purchased by Barbara Streisand): Each box is 49" high with 17" x 20" square tops for each (42" across the top for the two side by side) with 16" diameter ports. There are subwoofer, coax and 12V DC jacks on the back, with a port 12" in diameter. E-mail for images rashaw@iwvisp.com

The other pair consists of mid-size six-sided Electrovoice speakers, labeled "The Aristocrat." Each is 19" across the top. 16.5" back to front, 28" from bottom ledge to top, with a 2" high foot beneath the ledge. The foot is 17.5" across. The open back is 28" high by 5" across. E-mail for images rashaw@iwvisp.com

Any help is deeply appreciated. -- Rob Shaw



rickerfan

Showing 1 response by 8th-note

Michael Fremer knew Ricker and wrote a nice R.I.P. for him. Michael is pretty approachable and he might give you his opinion about the speakers if you contact him.

Otherwise I think you will have trouble selling these speakers for a significant amount of money. Your best bet might be to familiarize yourself with the forums that specialize in recording like Gearslutz and target your listings to people who may know who Ricker was. Another option is Reverb.com which specializes in selling music and recording gear. Another rabbit hole would be to research if there are any recording museums or if there are collectors of vintage recording gear. This is a long shot but Dave Grohl might be the kind of person that would be interested in preserving these speakers. He bought the Sound City console and he is a known collector of vintage gear.

Unfortunately no-brand-name rarity is not a good thing in audio. It would be neat to be able to say, "The Beatles were mastered on these speakers" but it probably doesn't lead to a high value. Good luck and I hope you find a good home for this gear.