Buying A Video Camera From The US?

[earl_roberts2002]

Due to the low pound/dollar at the moment I'm thinking of getting a video camera from America. The prices when converted against the prices on U.K sites are so much lower {even considering customs** that it just seems silly not importing.
So I'm wondering what would be the differences from buying one from here and are there any problems I might run into?
Thanks a lot!

[SheepDip]

I think this was asked recently - but I can't remember where the thread is.
The only possible problems that come to mind immediately are -

Charger and plug - it should work on our electric supply (They use very little energy) - but you'll need a plug adapter.

Backup - if anything goes wrong - can you get repairs if it's a USA model.

Last thing I can think of - it will almost certainly film in NTSC. If you're putting the signal onto your pc for editing, this will be less of a problem (But there will still be conversion factors if you want to convert to PAL).

Hope this helps - and no doubt someone will be along in a mo with more help

[Faythur]

I had asked quite recently whether to buy US or not as well.

Another point to consider is, can you find an etailer willing to ship to the UK? Whilst many will do so for the likes of DVD's etc, they seem unwilling in the case of electronics.

A case in point for example is Amazon.com. :(

In my case I will be going on holday there in June to make my purchase - maybe. :p

[earl_roberts2002]

Thanks for the replies!
Just as I thought really, NTSC is not a problem for me, I know technically it's lower resolution but I shot a load of stuff NTSC at college and I really can't tell the difference. A plug adapter is a must so I'm gonna get one soon.
Also about repairs, the Sony Centre are willing to sell you guarantees for practically everything so I'll just say something like my Nan bought it for me from her holiday and I need cover on it. It's around £70 I think, I can see them going for it. So that's all I need worry about I think. Just gotta find a site now! Thanks again

[Faythur]

Just found that http://www.ritzcamera.com/ will ship to uk.

EDIT

Scrap that!:oh-hum: Out of curiosity I did a dummy order for a Sony PC105 priced at $900.

When I go to checkout the price has jumped to $1,276.90!:eek: - converted by them as £689.53. That includes all duties etc BTW.

Same thing can be had from Pixmania for as low as £540! :(

[Uncle Spanky]

Yeah, the US websites have to add our VAT on top of their quoted price.

Also, import duties can be scandalous.