klarkash-ton wrote:higainer wrote:MakoGat wrote:So if some more products / options were available locally would you still shop overseas given perhaps paying the GST on more expensive items?
It would depend.
I prefer to support the local guys, so if it’s not that much more here, I’ll stay local.
Benefits would be trying the product, & warranty.
Locally sourced big ticket items like amps can give you piece of mind if things go south.
However a reputable overseas builder that stands behind their product is just as safe.
Keep buying overseas and watch more MusicWorks stores close (see Porirua), then watch all the other chains slow down, shut up shop and eventually there'll only be online buying only.
Online is perfect for trying out equipment, and email is always better for customer service than in person, and warranty's overseas totally beat NZ consumer protection law, it also helps out young people who are just getting into music know they are best served with social recommendations than their own experience. Let's not forget how cool it is to send a Head back overseas for warranty and paying shipping there and back and getting customs/IRD to make sure you were treated fairly.
Yes agreed.
If we are talking about brand new gear.
Offshore items purchased were/are not available here ie: VHT/Fryette, Rhodes/KSR.
Reputable builders.
Fryette blew a fuse, no biggie.
Rhodes was a different story, but he got it sorted AND paid the shipping both ways.
Like I said local guys are supported.
Rockshop & Amp Shop for gear & modding services when it was in business.
Local guys were/are not affected from my offshore purchases.
The rest my gear is 2nd hand.
Hope this clarifies.