Here's a question for the reel-to-reel gurus.
As far as I can see this AIWA TP1011 is an ordinary domestic 2 or
4-track.
It doesn't even appear to be valve-based:

http://cgi.ebay.com/VGC-AIWA-3-HEAD-REEL-TO-REEL-MDL-TP-1011_W0QQitem...

Interesting to note that all the higher bidders are first-timers. Maybe
the machine's filled with bags of heroin ("higher" bidders indeed!).
Either way, there must be an explanation for the price other than the
machine's actual value.

Ted Spencer, NYC
www.tedspencerrecording.com