Search for a great deal
The internet is a great way to find the best prices for new musical equipment, but do not let the search engine be the last port of call. You have a telephone and I strongly suggest you put this to work. Often, when you speak to a person in store you can get greater deals creating leverage by being an actual person on the end of a phone. Make a shortlist of shops and then you can give them a call and start asking about any special deals they may have, shop soiled items, ex-demo equipment, time sensitive deals, and you can even try and get the price down by saying you will buy immediately. Information is power and if you know the prices of the item at different stores and know the details of each deal you can play off one shop against another. A confident and friendly approach to the conversation will pay dividends. Invest time in your call preparation and be forearmed with some good information and I am sure you can get a cracking deal.
Purchase the right equipment the first time
A few words about buying high quality items as opposed to going for a cheaper but similar item: Quality kit is more sturdily built and is likely to be more durable in performance. Quality items will outlive a low cost item and whilst going cheap might appeal at first, it is likely you will be better served by spending a bit more money and getting a better item. Buying a high quality item at the best price is quite different from buying a lesser quality item at a rock bottom rate. If possible, try and save and purchase the right equipment the first time rather than letting your impatience get the better of you and splashing out just to satisfy your short term gear cravings.
Consider importing musical equipment
In many instances this is not a great thing to do but you owe it to yourself to research all options and sometimes it can be possible to get a great deal. In some instances buying the equipment from where it originates can save some money. However, there are things to be aware of:
A) Check that you are in the know relating to your tax and duty rates when importing equipment. Search online to find out the costs involved in importing musical equipment.
B) Double check that the equipment works on your main voltages which vary across the world.
C) Think about shipment costs. If the equipment does not work or is damaged on arrival consider the costs involved in sending it back.
D) Warranties can be a problem and finding out if the equipment will be under warranty (and the length of the warranty) despite having imported it, needs to be checked in detail.
You can get a better price sometimes but do ensure you are fully informed about the above aspects before importing equipment.
Don't forget, no matter who you're dealing with be confident, polite and have the right tone. You might just be able to get a good discount!
Click Here for the original article
No comments:
Post a Comment