Topic: Where to buy M10 in Hong Kong

[bigcitysound]

Hi all, just wondering if anyone on the board knows where to get good deals on audio gear such as recorders Sony M-10 etc in Hong Kong.

Jon

[su6oxone]

I don't remember any specific stores, but in terms of general shopping areas you can always try Mong Kok, which is a traditional market/shopping district that has somewhat recently been 'upgraded' with more commercial chain type stores.  The smaller shops sell crazy fake stuff too, though, so buyer beware of course. 

[sunjan]

Located in HK:
http://myworld.ebay.com/vaiohouse/

As a starting point, the official dealer list is useful:
http://www.sony.com.hk/dealer/index_e.jsp?lid=topmenu_text_order_dealers
You can set the area (ie Mongkok or Tsimshatsui), and narrow down where to go from there.

It might be worth spending a few $ extra buying from an authorized dealer, since you will get international warranty. Grey market units usually have local warranty only.

Don't forget to haggle and ask for freebies.
And make sure that all accessories are still in the box.

[SClassical]

One thing you need to remember is you cannot return things after your purchase something in HK. Don't enter a store that doesn't show a price tag on their item...they are usually the worse store in HK...they will look at you and if they feel you are a tourist they will quote a higher price. The price is different for different people that's why you don't see a price tag. Locals don't go to these stores to buy their stuff. Always shop around before committing to buy anything. There's a true story about an old tourist lady who wanted to buy a portable minidisc recorder and she went into these electrical stores. The outcome was she ended up buying a US$2000 minidisc recorder that was worth US$300 max..that was in the late 90s. It's happens all the time...

[earmonger]

Rule of thumb in bargaining in China: If there is a price tag, or an initial asking price, offer 1/3 of it. Find some small fault with the item. Keep smiling. They'll probably come down to 1/2 the asking price...but may do so only after you say "No thanks" and start to walk out.

Chinese for "too expensive": "Ty GWAY-la." 

[sunjan]

Rule of thumb in bargaining in China: If there is a price tag, or an initial asking price, offer 1/3 of it. Find some small fault with the item. Keep smiling. They'll probably come down to 1/2 the asking price...

This usually works for no name accessories and Made in China OEM gear. But for branded overseas stuff like Sony, there is a real market value which is very close to the selling price on ebay, and most dealer's are aware of it. You can try to haggle below, but there's little incentive for the dealer to give it away cheaper if they can sell it on ebay for more. Your saving will basically be the shipping and customs you'd pay otherwise, plus the additional security of getting the merchandise over the counter and being able to inspect it beforehand, not risking loss or damage in the post.