I just have to chime in on this one!
I have long argued that there are just some things you DO NOT buy on-line, e.g. expensive electronics (which are notorious for issues, no mater who makes them). It’s so much easier and more users friendly to walk back into the store, explain the problem, and minutes later walk out satisfied and back in business.
That being said, when I went looking for the Panasonic “DMC-FZ20PP-S” locally, it was averaging in the $599.00 range, I think that might be MSRP as well!!! So, trying to be frugal and trying my best not to take advantage of my wife’s “nod of approval" and good nature, I went on-line. I literally searched for days, looking for the perfect combination of "retailer, reputation, and price". I have a Circuit City within walking distance from my house, as well as a Good Guy’s; My Camera Came From New Jersey!!! I took much ribbing for this by my friends who have listened to my lectures, warnings and advise on Internet commerce. Since I hate, and I mean HATE having to ship things, "the task" of shipping is extremely annoying to me, not to mention the cost of fuel and time lost (USPS can average 15-30+ minutes, move over DMV!). I typically only buy products that I am 90%+ sure will not be a potential return.
I broke this rule a few weeks ago. And, after much research, went with “Beach Camera” in New Jersey, I have nothing against New Jersey, it’s just a little far to drive if I need to return something! They are at ...
http://beachcamera.com/shop/home.asp Circuit City and Good Guy’s wanted darn near MSRP for FZ20. At “Beach Camera” it was $431.00, need I say more? My experience (only experience) with these folks was solid. They try to sell you “packages”, but they are kind of cheesy and in my opinion not worth it. I also bought the “Mack” extended Warranty from Beach. I have also picked up a few lenses from B&H at ...
http://bhphotovideo.com/ with zero issues/problems; they were also solid to deal with. *** Everyone, keep in mind, I am brand new to the serious photographers world, I am speaking strictly as a consumer and from recent experience.***
Truth be told, I had never heard of “Mack” before, but the price was reasonable. Typically, when buying expensive electronics (even vehicles) I will pay for the “extended warranty”. Some think they are a scam, others swear by them. I have never had a problem with an extended warranty service honoring their agreement. BTW, on vehicles, the “mark up” is insane. After an attempted “bait and switch” from a local Toyota Dealership, I ended up receiving the Toyota 100,000 mile Platinum extended warranty (I always pick this Toyota package anyway and refuse to pay more then $900.00 for it) for $850.00, that is less half the price they try to sell it for ($1,600.00). Its “buyers beware”!
To end this novel, I use Amazon for books, CD’s and “stuff”. I have had some atrocious experiences with their “sub-vendors” or “renters”. The Amazon “renters” and Yahoo “renters” are both are equally precarious to deal with. Amazon and Yahoo are slow and impotent when it comes to helping resolve complaints. However, if you like gadgets,
http://productwizard.com/ is the place to go! They are in fact, connected to Yahoo, but have been absolutely awesome to deal with (great prices) and my purchases (shipping, accuracy, speed, communication) flawless!
http://www.megapixel.net/html/cover.php seems to be a pretty cool Photo Info site. It was Consumer Reports and Mega Pixel that helped me decide on the Panasonic FZ20.
My two cents.
Peace … JD
My "Two Cents"
Linear Mode
