Online HDTV Purchases: Safe? Why Cheaper?

[doctorsteve]

Sure there's low overhead. But why are Online HDTV purchases cheaper? Is the price difference worth the risk of damage in transit?

What kinds of hassles have you encountered with Online HDTV purchases? For example, if I buy a set from CConline or BBonline, is the service handled through the store? Please share your horror stories, suggestions, and positive experiences as well.

I'm looking to get a Bravia KDL-52XBR4, now I'm just trying to decide if I should go brick-n-mortar, online BB/CC, or find another reliable online store like Crutchfield or J&R (Suggestions on these are welcome as well).

Thanks, Doc.


Mods, delete this thread, it is reposted in the HDTV area. Thank you

[camper]

I wresteled with this myself when I bought my LCD. Yes, I could have gotten a MUCH better TV online from the smaller (but reputeable) stores and had it shipped, but I coulnd't bring myself to do it. I ended up going to Best Buy, which means I did NOT get the best deal. I could have saved $200 on my TV by going elsewhere online, no question.

Still, I like that if something goes wrong with my TV I do not have to pay to ship it--I just have to get it to the store. I wanted the purchase protection plan on it, because it's a big ticket item and it's electronics which can be finicky.

So it wasn't the shipping issue so much, since every TV you buy is shipped the same companies delivering it to you. For me, it was the peace of mind knowing that there was a building I could walk into if there was a problem, rather than a website to contact or a phone number to call.

~Camper

[Rob71]

Originally Posted by camper

So it wasn't the shipping issue so much,... it was the peace of mind knowing that there was a building I could walk into if there was a problem

~Camper

Exactly why I went with Best Buy instead of online. Buying movies and games online is one thing, but a 2 to 3 grand TV was just not something I wanted to try.