[ARC5] Re: More Fair Radio

[Todd, KA1KAQ]

On Tue, Jul 22, 2008 at 10:40 AM, David Stinson <arc5 at ix.netcom.com> wrote:

> Better to "fire sale" price such things, recover what money you can
> and put it back to work compounding itself.

Only if you want to close the doors, methinks. I still believe this
has something to do with keeping stock vs selling it all out, with
little hope of being able to replace it. My guess is that they have a
good feel for what sells easily and keeps the place afloat combined
with how much of what is left. They likely stick a higher price on
some figuring the interest may come around (especially with less and
less available) and if they sell a few in the meantime at the 'high'
price, no sweat. It might also be a way of testing the waters on new
items they find but aren't really knowledgeable about.

> the Rycom selective
> level meter, listed for $695.  Folks, you can occasionally find such things
> at hamfest for a pittance, because analog microwave systems are being
> replaced by digital ones all over the world.

A lot of folks don't go to hamfests or maybe prefer the convenience of
buying online, with a credit card, whatever the reason. Look at the
business ebay does, and the prices paid for some stuff on there (the
$200 T-17 mics come to mind). You just never know. They sold R-390As
for years at a price below what similar units were selling for online.
Eventually they caught up, but their stock of complete sets was soon
depleted.

> And I've never met Phil, but I take your word
> that he's a really good guy and God bless him.
> I hope they stay in business forever.
> I just don't understand how they do it.

Their pricing probably plays a role in that. Once it's gone, it's
difficult if not impossible, to replace. Large stashes of
easily-replaced and moderately priced items can keep the place rolling
along. If they dropped all the prices until stuff sold, they'd
probably be out their jobs without enough from the sale for a
comfortable retirement. Plus, it's gotta be a fun job to have.

~ Todd,  KA1KAQ