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What Can Be Done with a Tube Collection?

Posted by Cliff on from the it's-not-old...it's-vintage dept.

caffiend666 asks: "My grandfather was a TV repairman in the 50s to early 70s. Most of his repair equipment is still available, complete with hundreds of tubes, discrete components, switches, tube tester, dot bar generator, oscilloscope, and more. They are selling the farm, and we are trying to dispose of this equipment gracefully. Anybody know of a good way to donate them as a complete set for a write-off? The condition of the equipment varies from great to horrid. There are some pictures showing a little of what we have, on my website. Any advice or stories for selling 35+ year old electronic equipment? Does anyone know of a museum that would appreciate the equipment?"

4 of 70 comments (clear)

  1. eBay by AtariAmarok · · Score: 4, Informative

    Aside from some fun skeet shooting, there is always eBay. I've considered this for my remaining tubes. They do have some value there.

    --
    Don't blame Durga. I voted for Centauri.
  2. Hams want it! by n1ywb · · Score: 5, Informative
    There is a big market for old tubes and test equipment among ham radio operators.

    Go on the ARRL Hamfest Calender and find the soonest closest hamfest in your area, bring the stuff there and sell it yankee trader style.

    Alternatively, ebay might be good for some stuff. Use the "search completed items" feature to see what if any of it will actually sell.

    Alternatively alternatively you could try to find a local ham who will take it off your hands.

    Good luck!

    --
    -73, de n1ywb
    www.n1ywb.com
    1. Re:Hams want it! by ASCIIMan · · Score: 4, Informative

      Even better: If you want the best possible response (in terms of number of hams there, etc.) to something like this, you might want to try the Dayton Hamvention, the biggest amateur radio gathering (I think) in the world. It's from May 20-22 this year, and Flea Market spaces are available for reservation until April 1. One Flea Market space (9' by 17') costs $70. If you really want to sell your stuff (and not do it on Ebay) this might be your best bet.

  3. U. S. Marconi Museum by kevinl · · Score: 4, Informative

    You might want to contact the U. S. Marconi Museum in Bedford, NH. http://www.marconiusa.org/index.html
    In addition to the exhibits, they restore vintage radios.