For your ears only

For Your Ears Only is the annual fundraiser for Audio-Reader, a reading and information service for the blind and visually impaired. Audio-Reader’s services are offered completely free of charge to those who need them in Kansas and western Missouri. Audio-Reader’s annual sale of “everything audio” has become their biggest fundraising event, and this year’s sale looks to be the biggest ever.

Typically held on a Friday and Saturday in late September, the sale draws record collectors from hundreds of miles away. Items for sale include records, tapes, CDs, DVDs, video tapes, and equipment including turntables, cassette decks, receivers, amplifiers, speakers, CD and DVD players, laser discs and stereo cabinets. Also, you might find MP3 players, musical instruments, telephones, walkie-talkies and camcorders.

This year’s sale is Friday, September 19 from 6pm – 9 pm at the Douglas County Fairgrounds , Buildings #21, 2120 Harper St. in Lawrence, KS. It’s $10 at the door, with $7 advance tickets available from Audio Reader. The Friday sale features live music, prizes, free food and first pick of our extensive inventory! The sale continues Saturday, September 20 from 9am – 4 pm and admission is FREE. They have received more audio EQUIPMENT this year than ever before! We’re talking about MORE receivers, amps, speakers, stereos, VCRs, recorders, CD players and turntables including those rare and vintage pieces from your favorite brands!

This year, they’ve also received many unique items, but in particular was a 5,000+ LP donation from a Canadian collector featuring lots of Canadian and British pop artists! You’ll also find lots of records in mint condition and a very good collection of 45s this year. They’ve got 12,000+ vinyl records along with CDs, DVDs, VHS tapes, Books on CD, musical instruments, TVs, kids’ electronics, and so much more! There’s truly something for everyone at bargain prices: most LPs are $1 and CDs are $3. Specialty items and equipment will be priced as marked by their volunteer audio expert.

I’ve attended all of these sales but last year, and even if you go in with just ten bucks in your back pocket, you’ll still walk out with some nice stuff. I’ve found a lot of oddball compilations, some sealed Roger Miller records, and scads of CDs that would otherwise cost me an arm and a leg. If you want to rub shoulders with hipsters, record dealers, and nerds… it’s certainly a place to be.