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  3. 181510-102456

Experience buying from Europe?

I’m looking to buy a European-made turntable. I can save about $1500 if I buy it from a European online retailer. About 33% savings. The sellers I have found are legit authorized dealers of the brand, and have solid history and ratings. The savings includes the shipping cost.

Just wondering from those who have actual experience buying like this. I know the pitfalls might be duty/taxes, shipping damage, and potential warranty/service issues. The unit comes with switchable voltage, no worries there. So, I understand the risks.

My research says there will be no duty, agree? HTS code 8519.30.20.00. I live in a very rural area with no dealer in a huge radius, so it is not an option for me to just go buy one and pick it up. Does anyone know I can get warranty service in the US if it fails under warranty?

Are the savings worth the risks? …. I’m leaning yes.

gemoody
fuzztone's avatar
fuzztone
5,505 posts
 

Yes indeed. I have bought from UK and Netherlands many times. No problem either way if a return desired. The only hardware "fail" under warranty garnered a painless prepaid label for a DHL pickup on site within an hour (in the suburbs.)

I have never encountered "duty."

As always it depends most on the integrity of the dealer.

Go for it

jgoldrick's avatar
jgoldrick
138 posts
 

I have bought from Europe a couple of times, some hi cost items for me.  Came  thru fine, but there was always a shipping delay at the outgoing port.  One was stopped for exporting encryption.  A mix up I suppose, the issuer redid it.

mgattmch
556 posts
 

I purchased a Michell Engineering GyroDec (version with plinth) whilst on vacation in The Netherland several years ago. At the time only the SE version (no plinth) was available in the USA. No issues bringing it back to the States (checked luggage), no duty levied and I managed to buy it VAT free. Converting the power supply from 220V to 120V was easy, simple bit of jumper soldering work. With the fall in the euro verses the dollar, no doubt excellent value for money now. Still works perfectly and looks beautiful.

bigtwin's avatar
bigtwin
1,134 posts
 

I have purchased direct from a retailer in England.  Website and back & forth by email gave me a good feeling.  Saved about 20% over local dealer and delivery was perfect.  We're a global community.  I always try to give my money to the businesses in my area, but I won't pay for the privilege.  

yakbob
449 posts
 

I purchased a very large pair of speakers from across the pond at Audio Emotion UK and their service was exemplary. I'd have no problem recommending them purchase or service recommendations.

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