Do you guys think buying HP1000 at this point is a good idea?
Currently HP1000 price range is around $1500-$2000.
These headphones are getting old and you cannot get new replacement drivers as I know.
When I am paying $1500 for more then 20 years old headphones, I am also thinking as an investment.
I want your opinion on this.
In my opinion, $1500 will not buy a pair of HP1000. At least not a pair that's in reasonably good condition, especially now that Joseph is no longer with us.
As John said, the lettering is very fragile, and is often what mostly differenciate, good, from mint condition.
I would rate the prices, and conditions, as follows,
$2000 to $2500 - Good condition, no major scratches on the metal, and no major issues on the leather, and cable. No less than 25% of the lettering missing.
$2500 to $3000 - Very good, to mint condition, with VERY minor issues on all of the above. No less than 10% of the lettering missing.
$3000+ Mint condition, no issues at all of any of the above. 100% of the lettering has to be intact.
There are other variables that will affect the value, and bring a pair closer to the maximum value. Foe example, are they, HP1, HP2, HP3, do they have the J.G. Signature....cable, original box, airfoam, warranty papers, original bill of sales etc...
My HP1000 are HP2, with the J.G Signature cable...they're in VERY close to mint condition, with only 4 of the letters, and 1 number, that have about 30% missing, but all are still readable. The only way to buy a pair of HP1000 for cheap, is if the seller doesn't know the market.
I have bought mine through an autorized Grado dealer, who were selling them as a favor to an elderly gentlemen, who happened to be a very good client of theirs. I paid $350. I don't have to tell you, that deals like that, don't come around very often.
I realise that to some owners, the HP1000 is percieved as the Holy Grail, but please keep in mind that his is simply one man's opinion...one very strongly medicated man's opinion.
Wow, Joseph, I just saw your HP1000 post. This seems like a good deal.