2. amps-preamps
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Made in Canada conundrum

We all know that some of the very best audio equipment is made in Canada. Some of these legendary companies don't have service facilities in the USA, so if it breaks,like mine did, you send it back to Canada. I just experienced this: Promised about 2 weeks turn-around time, but we're going on 2 months and it's still at Customs in Canada, who are waiting to clear it, having charged me tax, duty, broker fees (FedEx) and a fourth charge for some technicality that I've forgotten. What do US purchasers feel about paying tax, duty and broker fees when they buy Canadian and then pay the same fees again to have the original repaired? Annoyed, like I am, or did you know that? And would you have bought Canadian if you knew this before-hand - like I didn't, because nobody told me. Should I have known this? Opinions, please. (I will keep the Manufacturer's name confidential while I wait for resolution)
springbok10
onhwy61's avatar
onhwy61
5,210 posts
 
Rodman99999, I can only assume you're joking.
Those unfriendly neighbors to the North!

They don't like America

Otherwise I would write comments questioning your intelligence.

Regarding the original post -- that sucks! Although it looks like it might be a golden opportunity for some U.S. based electronic service firms.
springbok10 OP
711 posts
 
As I go back and forth with customs, waiting for forms, repeatedly giving my SSN, credit card numbers, swearing at the fax machine because nothing promised arrives, I certainly make this generalised statement of advice to all US residents: Never buy any foreign-made equipment with out a (written) guarantee of an authorised USA service facility. It should be included unambiguously in the Manufacturer's warranty. The Canadians blame the US for the delays, but that is irrelevant. Aside from customs, even shipping costs and inconvenience should preclude repairs outside of the USA for any product bought here. Once bitten.
trelja
3,223 posts
 
Denis, it's too late now, but FedEX has a box to check for "Repair & Return" when the shipment is created that addresses the absolute hell you're going through now. In addition to checking that whenever I was involved in these situations, I always wrote it out in great big letters so that hopefully no one would miss it.

That being said, I've had people send stuff down to me via UPS, and no matter what (the box could be in neon colors, with "REPAIR & RETURN" flashing in lights), and they ALWAYS soaked both parties.
rodman99999
6,123 posts
 
onhwy61- Obviously you are unconcious to the realities of the Canadian attitude toward America. You would do well to keep up with current(and past) events: (http://www.cbc.ca/news/viewpoint/vp_zolf/20060829.html)(http://www.filibustercartoons.com/canguide_4_aaa.php) (http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A15638-2004Nov26.html) (http://www.benedictionblogson.com/2003/02/27/canadas-anti-americanism/) I really don't expect you to educate your self by accessing this info(even if you CAN read), but what the heck. I'm certain you'll find it necessary to get the "last word" in. Enjoy yourself! =8^)
springbok10 OP
711 posts
 
Joe, in your experience, what percentage of foreign manufacturers do NOT have a US-based repair facility? Appropos the Repair & Return box, I certainly was unaware of it and Customer Service at the manufacturer in Canada certainly didn't mention it. All I got was a RA number. Period.
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