Settle an argument

[Adam]

Has anyone else noticed that the OP hasn't commented since asking what to do?

Yep.

 

[MDS]

Blue book has absolutely nothing to do with what the IRS allows or considers acceptable. Some classic pieces are bought and sold for more than their list price when they were new. Doesn't seem like a smart decision to donate them, does it?

I don't really care to debate this but you're missing my point. Used electronics aren't worth much of anything. The IRS guidelines of 40% just happens to be about all you can get and I was just using that as an example. We are not talking about classic or esoteric equipment that people will pay an arm and a leg for (like McIntosh amps).

And why not donate it? Unless you are desperate for cash, donating to charity so that someone less fortunate might be able to pick up something they'd otherwise never be able to afford is a good thing.

I usually start with craigslist when I want to get rid of something but if I don't get any offers or only very lowball offers, I donate it instead...I just don't need the money - I want the crap out of my house.

 

[mtrycrafts]

....
And why not donate it? Unless you are desperate for cash, donating to charity so that someone less fortunate might be able to pick up something they'd otherwise never be able to afford is a good thing.
...

My sentiment exactly I don't think too many here really need the cash.
As to the IRS, I doubt they will accept that 40% if they audit as they want to know some comparable sales and perhaps hat the charity got for the item. Or, that is what the preparer told me one time, if I remember correctly but may not be.

 

[highfigh]

I don't really care to debate this but you're missing my point. Used electronics aren't worth much of anything. The IRS guidelines of 40% just happens to be about all you can get and I was just using that as an example. We are not talking about classic or esoteric equipment that people will pay an arm and a leg for (like McIntosh amps).

And why not donate it? Unless you are desperate for cash, donating to charity so that someone less fortunate might be able to pick up something they'd otherwise never be able to afford is a good thing.

I usually start with craigslist when I want to get rid of something but if I don't get any offers or only very lowball offers, I donate it instead...I just don't need the money - I want the crap out of my house.

People buy and sell used electronics all the time, some make a lot of money at it, too. I worked for a store that took trades and with the number of kids going to college, others not being able to afford new and people who want something for a basement or garage, used is a good choice. 40% isn't the limit for used and if it's new/clean/interesting, it can be sold for more.

I agree that donation is a good way when it's not a matter of needing money.

 

[lsiberian]

Being a music teacher...

Donate them to your local elementary, junior high, or high school band/orchestra department! You'd be amazed at how many of these programs do not have adequate sound equipment.

If you're in the Phoenix area I'll take them for one of my elementary schools! We listen all the time and have to use crappy JVC speakers that can't handle the room volume.

-pat

This sounds like an opportunity to do something positive with this hobby.

 

[jinjuku]

We have a nice pair of Polk Audio Monitor Series Speakers (11T 27262). I say it is time to get rid of them since they haven't been used for years and are just taking up storage space. My husband says they are nice speakers and we should keep them. I say for what?!! He has a new home theater system and these are too big for any other use axcept taking up space. Could we try to sell them or just junk em?

Thoughts?

Since I generally have nice audio gear regardless of age I gift them. I just gifted a pair of PSB 400i's to a buddy of mine. They are 14 years old.

They are nicer than anything he had or would go out and get for himself.