But consumer electronics often comes down in price after a while, even before introduction of new replacement models. TVs are a good example. Probably not to think of them as financial investments.
I recently bought an expensive ceiling light from John Lewis, which a month or so later they cut to half price. To add insult to injury my electrician was unable to fit it, so it currently sits in its cardboard box clobbering up my study. But as my Dad used to say “it’s all part of life’s rich tapestry.”
I’m not about to rush off to trading standards and I know it’s common for TV’s etc to go up and down in price. And I don’t buy Hifi as an investment.
But Naim gear normally only goes up in price. If I’d bought my 222/250 before last year’s price rise or from today onwards, then I would be £1000 better off. That’s not a small sum
Naim had premium release prices on their Solstice turntable and Nait 50, both of which needed adjustment, wonder if they have learned a lesson or its their attempt to increase profit ?
Maybe consider buying on the secondary market next time. You would’ve essentially received a buy one get one free deal. Both the 222 and NC250 regularly sell for less than half of MSRP. You would have saved $9k+.
On a certain auction site there are a number of NC NAP250 around £3700. Good chance you could haggle one for £3500 if patient. Against a retail price (until last week) of £6200, now £5700.
222 are slightly higher, and the 300NPX go for £3.5k. But it does mean someone could build 222/300/250 for £11k ish. Just below current retail for 222/250.
This settling price point for NC means classic boxes are absolutely outstanding value. Can get a fairly fresh 250DR for £1800.
The crux of the matter here is a manufacturer devaluing their products, not just changing prices, which IMV is either due to a lack of prudence or a need for desperate measures, neither a good sign.
Very straightforward, those who acquired these products at a higher price are experiencing a decline in worth. If they plan to sell or trade in the second-hand market, they find themselves in a tough spot.
Yeah it really makes no sense to buy new unless in today’s market. I was lucky and got my NC kit new at a considerable discount from an online dealer. Of course I forewent the level of service you get when buying new but the discount was enough to justify. I also think a lot of manufacturers took advantage of inflationary times to tack on an unnecessary price increase even though their COGS didn’t reflect inflationary costs.