High Prices
For the most part I agree with Grumpy but. . . there are exceptions to the rule and from my experience with that Pioneer it has to be put in the exception catagory. Just about perfect almost a total rebuild and upgraded componets do add value. . .
Speaking from experience I have had and I have sold many Pioneer receivers for well over the going rate. From a 650.00 SX-850 to a 499.99 SX-780, countless 850s that went over the 400 dollar mark, many 1050s over the 600.00 dollar mark and my all time high a SX-1010 for right at 1000.00 with shipping (after EW had his way with it)
In the 1010 case I was in it over 800 by the time I was finished. Initial price plus EW and parts. On the other high dollar receivers I paid a premimum for those as well.
Most of the time if you want a one owner, well maintained, cosmeticaly and functionaly perfect you have to pay big money to get it in the first place. I damn sure didnt get rich off my eBay and other big money sales. Most of the time I got what I had in them with a little more on some.
I wanted those SX-850/1050s in as close to perfect condition and I was willing to pay to get them. Otherwise I would have never owned one. Also I bought normal run of the mill versions that were considered "very nice", "works perfect" for normal prices. For the most part the run of the mill versions were just fine even excellent values that made nice reliable daily drivers.
The fact is however, that the devil is in the details. Truly perfect examples are just about impossible to find now unless you are willing to pay to get them. If all you want is a nice looking great working vintage Pioneer there are many of those out there that can still be had for more "Normal" prices, but if you want a muesum piece you might get lucky but most likely you are going to have to get it off your hip.