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

Showing 6 responses by springbok10

springbok10 OP
711 posts
 
Correct, Tvad. Spot-on. As some have stated, I guess different manufacturers go to significant lengths to help their US customers over the hurdles, whereas others do not.
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.
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.
springbok10 OP
711 posts
 
Touche, Andr.
springbok10 OP
711 posts
 
Alan, I can say exactly the same about Magnum Dynalab, a Canadian company that has a repair facility somewhere south of the border. 4 day turn-around, superb service.
springbok10 OP
711 posts
 
Trelja wrote:

>>I think the percentage of foreign companies without a US repair facility is well over 50%. Based on the experiences I've had in the past few years, I've more or less come to the conclusion that a company not based in North America that is unable/unwilling to pay someone in the USA to support their margue and all that's involved in doing so is a company not worth patronizing.<<

I, for one, will never ever again buy a foreign product that does not have a US-based repair/support facility.
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