recent online purchasing success and failure stories please post here!

Vizunary · 04-02-2007, 04:29 PM

I originally bought a sammi 5088 from vanns at the end of feb 07. Ordered it thurs night, shipped fri, in my house mon. Very fast ship and travel time using yellow inc trucking. Please understand that this is a review of Vanns and not the product. The sammi worked for about three hours, then i got the three leds flashing on the front, long story short, after a service call I sent it back and had a replacement in under a week. SECOND sammi didn't work OUT OF THE BOX! I was po'ed to say the least, I even called sammi to get a manufacture date, and the 2nd tv was off the line on 03/02/07, so this was a sammi issue.
I told vanns and they were empathetic with my issue and now I have a beautiful Sony 50A2020 in my room for the same price as the Sammi. This last replacement I sent back thurs 03/29 and my sony was here 04/02.

This is the BEST customer service I have EVER received for this type of product, whether online or in-store(BB doesn't hold a candle), and when I want to upgrade to 7.1 surround they have already earned my business.... If only they carried blu-ray, hmm???

PV2Omni · 04-09-2007, 02:27 AM

I ordered this product on 06Dec06, which is plenty of time to get it by Christmas using Amazon's super saver shipping. I chose to pay extra to upgrade to the only available option of "standard shipping".

On 07Dec06 I received an email stating that my TV had shipped and giving me the tracking number. I initially noticed that the tracking number had information from a 2004 shipment on it. Knowing that tracking numbers are reused I expected it to clear out and be updated. After several days, I contacted Amazon and found out that I was not even given the correct tracking number to begin with and was given the correct tracking number.

The TV was coming from Reno, NV and going to Phoenix, AZ (which is a 1 day trip), but was estimated at a 5 day delivery. The package arrived in Phoenix the morning of 14Dec06. Friday afternoon when I had gotten no calls from the delivery company, I decided to call them. I was initially told that the delivery would be next Tuesday (19Dec06) at the earliest. After complaining for some time I was told that I could have it delivered Saturday 16Dec06. I was also informed that there was a notation that the box had a "tear" in it from the shipper.

On Saturday when the TV was delivered, I had them open up the box in my presence. Exactly where this tear was (a 1" by 6" hole) was damage from an impact (most likely a forklift). The hit was so hard that the whole top of the TV was destroyed. I of course refused the shipment and called Amazon.

The first gentleman that I spoke with told me that he could not help me and that I needed to talk with the "electronics department", but that he could not transfer me. Instead, he would have to send an email to them and they should be getting back with me in 2 days. On Sunday 18Dec06, I received an email saying that they could send out a replacement, but couldn't guarantee delivery by Christmas or I could have a refund that wouldn't come for 2-3 "business" days.

I called again and was told that no Supervisors or Team Leads were available and that one would call me back within 2 hours. 2 hours came and went with no call, so I called again. This time I was told that there was no Supervisors or Team Leads even working today. When I confronted the Rep on the fact that SOMEONE had to be watching over her, she was magically able to find a Team Lead for me to speak with. He told me that he could not send out a replacement nor refund my money. He said that they only thing he could do was send an email to his Supervisor, who "should" get back with me by the end of business.

About an hour later, I received a phone call from someone at Amazon who was not the Supervisor who was supposed to be calling me back. He in fact confirmed this and said that he was only a Team Lead. He told me that he was told that the only thing that they could do for me was to refund my money, because they could not guarantee shipping by Christmas. When I asked when they sent out a broken TV to begin with, why they could not pay to send the TV 2nd day; I was told that FedEx or UPS would not accept a package that big for shipment. Now I have a FedEx account and to ship that TV from Reno 2nd day cost $310 and to ship it 1 day was $325. I then asked to be refunded my money PLUS the cost to buy it locally, since they knowingly sent out a broken TV. I was told that all he could do is refund my money and that I should get it within 2-3 business days. Then he hung up!

I spent the next 1 1/2 weeks talking to many more CS Reps, Team Leads, and even a few "Supervisors". Every time I was told a completely different story and was told that, it did not matter that there was notations in the system otherwise. When I told them that I had been recording every conversation that I had had with Amazon I was told that it did not matter.

Trying to call the corporate office was a joke too. The secretary who answered asked how she could help you and when you ask for the CEO, she says she CANNOT do anything without a name. Knowing his name, I asked for him and was told that he does not take calls. I then asked for his secretary and was again asked for a name. In the end what ended up being my TRUE options was to wait 2-4 weeks for Amazon to process a return(how you return something that was never technically delivered I don't know). After Amazon processed my "return", I could then choose to wait another 2-4 weeks for either my refund or another TV to be sent out to me.

In the end after all of the lies and lack of service; Plus the fact that this was part of my sons Christmas presents (Yes when your son understands and deals with how you have to live on almost nothing, when Social Security takes almost 2 years to start paying, you go and spend $6,000 on his Christmas!). I had to file a Visa Dispute with my bank and had my money back within a couple of days. I turned around and bought the TV for $2,150 from Spencer’s TV and Appliances here in Mesa, AZ. It was in my house by the Friday after Christmas.

Therefore, the answer to the problem is to NEVER use Amazon again for anything that is time sensitive or over a couple hundred bucks. Even my order that really was not needed quickly said "In Stock" on the site, but magically was back ordered, when they got their money, for a week that ended up being a month. Amazon like many companies before it has gotten too big for its britches. Even right now, I can take back products for 90 day with no exclusions and no questions at Wal-Mart.

hockster31 · 04-11-2007, 03:06 PM

ONECALL ROCKS! Awesome price, beat best buy - by 600.00!!! Even had a better warranty. got a 61' samsung dlp with stand, cables and harmony 880 remote, 5 year warr, bulb replacement. amazing deal. I delt with Chad Gambill, he was honest and wasn't pushy at all. He also took the time to explain everything, not rushed for the next call

Flibmeister · 05-12-2007, 05:37 AM

Another vote for OneCall. Ordered a Sony KDS-60A020 on Wednesday, delivery (Spokane-Phoenix) was on Tuesday, no problems whatsoever. I declined the $250 white glove delivery, but got it anyway by waving a twenty dollar bill at the Fedex guy.

Amazon was $75 higher on the day I ordered, but was $75 less the day after; I called OneCall and they credited my card the $75 before the TV even arrived.

BTW, read the fine print on your credit card agreement and choose carefully which card you use for your purchase-- the extended warranty provisions of various cards (even within the same company) work differently. I bought a Mack three year extended warranty on this TV ($210, including up to two bulb replacements) which takes over after the Sony one year warranty expires, for four years of coverage. By using my Amex instead of my Mastercard, I got an additional year of coverage that doesn't begin until after the Mack warranty expires-- for a total of five years.

kameleon_o · 06-21-2007, 11:48 PM

I just bought a new LCD for a friend and helped her set it up. It was a deal Best Buy was offering. They offered you the choice between a Sony DLP or a Sony LCD KDL40V2500. She went with the LCD and it came with a PS3, a Blue Ray movie, and a PS3 game. All for $2089. I liked some of the other LCD's better (bigger screen or more HDMI ports) but for that price it was a great deal.

Hooked everything up and it was amazing!! Excellent quality when watching the Blue Ray movie Open Season. My daughter watched the standard DVD Monsters, Inc. on it and it was really great too. Tried some other DVD's and they weren't quite as good but still good. Revenge of the Sith was great when it came to the CG scenes like the battle cruisers or planet scenes but just okay when it came to people or regular scenes. The picture, colors, and brightness of the Sony is really awesome. She had problems programming the remote so I'll have to go do that for her but she doesn't like it at all. All in all, great deal and great LCD!!!

sl7z · 08-12-2007, 10:46 PM

I bought the Samsung HLS-5679W DLP from Amazon for $1329, no tax, free shipping. I think I got one of the last ones, because now you have to buy through Electronics Express when you go to Amazon (higher price, plus shipping). Eagle delivered my television 6 days after I put the order in. They took the TV out of the box and waited to see that it worked. It's only been 9 days since I got the TV, but it looks gorgeous so far.

daleb · 08-13-2007, 10:00 AM

Overall, I've had great success with Amazon on smaller stuff. For the big ticket items I would stick with OneCall, Vann's, Crutchfield, etc.
One thing for certain, they sell directly. Amazon does not stock everything, but they offer items from 3rd parties too. That's not always a bad thing, but for something like an expensive display I would rather deal with one source for the whole transaction.
www.resellerratings.com is a good indicator who is doing the best job.

JMP3 · 08-21-2007, 12:12 PM

Have you folks seen the prices of the Samsung HL-TXX89S series at The High Definition Store ? Really good prices with FREE shipping:
HL-T5089S - $1749
HL-T5689S - $1999
HL-T6189S - $2399
I bought a HL-T5089S from them...had the TV in 7 days. Sorry if this has been posted already....

turboscooby · 08-22-2007, 12:10 AM

I recently bought my Samsung DLP 56" from secondact . com
i found them to have the best price overall shipped, and I received my tv within a week.

so if anyone want to give them a try, i would recommend it.

daleb · 08-22-2007, 01:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by turboscooby

I recently bought my Samsung DLP 56" from secondact . com
i found them to have the best price overall shipped, and I received my tv within a week.

so if anyone want to give them a try, i would recommend it.

Their rating is 'not bad'.

http://www.resellerratings.com/store/Second_Act

BramptonAssJag · 08-23-2007, 08:53 PM

Damn

SinCityBlitz · 09-12-2007, 11:17 PM

Vanns.com here. August 15th we ordered a Samsung HL-T5087S and had it in house the 20th. TV came in EXCELLENT condition with no problems. I have no problems recommending them to anybody.

MalakaMalaka · 09-13-2007, 10:36 AM

Amazon delivered my television- Samsung HL-T5076S is 4 business days (6 days total including the weekend) from the day I ordered it.

The tv and box was in great condition. The shipping company, I think it was Eagle Freight USA, brought the tv up three flights of stairs, unpacked it, set it up, and then asked me to sign the received slip. i felt bad because i didn't have any cash to tip, but o well.

The tv is in great condition. Not to mention- the lowest possible price from anywhere including the shady online dealers based out of Brooklyn that you'd never want to do business with.

Go with Amazon. You can't go wrong. My second choice would have to be Buydotcom because of their long standing reputation and low prices. I found these two online stores to be by far the best out there. Trust me.

daleb · 09-13-2007, 12:29 PM

It's not a matter of 'trusting you' because of one or two experiences of one or two people. It's the bigger picture that counts. But it's your money and time.

http://www.resellerratings.com/store/Buy

http://www.resellerratings.com/store/Amazon

http://www.resellerratings.com/store/Vann_s

http://www.resellerratings.com/store/OneCall

Everything has some risk, it depends on how much you want to take.

mbrowning · 09-13-2007, 05:40 PM

We purchased a Sony KDS-55A3000 from bestbuy's website on 9/6/2007. I selected the first delivery date they had available: 9/13/07. Last night I called and asked if they knew around what time they would be delivering the TV and I was told between 9:30am and 11:30am. To me, that is quite an impressive delivery time frame. Usually I seem to hear something like 8am to 5pm.
And sure enough, they showed up at about 9:45am. And even though I thought I was only getting curb side delivery, they brought the TV inside, unpacked it, and installed it in our entertainment center. They said if we had cable or a DVD player they also would have hooked that up for us, but it's a new house and we don't have those there yet. Not bad for "free shipping."

04-02-2007, 04:29 PM	#226
Vizunary HD is the only way! Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Texas Age: 30 Posts: 6	Vanns.com simply the best customer service I originally bought a sammi 5088 from vanns at the end of feb 07. Ordered it thurs night, shipped fri, in my house mon. Very fast ship and travel time using yellow inc trucking. Please understand that this is a review of Vanns and not the product. The sammi worked for about three hours, then i got the three leds flashing on the front, long story short, after a service call I sent it back and had a replacement in under a week. SECOND sammi didn't work OUT OF THE BOX! I was po'ed to say the least, I even called sammi to get a manufacture date, and the 2nd tv was off the line on 03/02/07, so this was a sammi issue. I told vanns and they were empathetic with my issue and now I have a beautiful Sony 50A2020 in my room for the same price as the Sammi. This last replacement I sent back thurs 03/29 and my sony was here 04/02. This is the BEST customer service I have EVER received for this type of product, whether online or in-store(BB doesn't hold a candle), and when I want to upgrade to 7.1 surround they have already earned my business.... If only they carried blu-ray, hmm???

04-09-2007, 02:27 AM	#227
PV2Omni HD is the only way! Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: Mesa, AZ Posts: 6	Amazon and a Sony KDS-60A2000 I ordered this product on 06Dec06, which is plenty of time to get it by Christmas using Amazon's super saver shipping. I chose to pay extra to upgrade to the only available option of "standard shipping". On 07Dec06 I received an email stating that my TV had shipped and giving me the tracking number. I initially noticed that the tracking number had information from a 2004 shipment on it. Knowing that tracking numbers are reused I expected it to clear out and be updated. After several days, I contacted Amazon and found out that I was not even given the correct tracking number to begin with and was given the correct tracking number. The TV was coming from Reno, NV and going to Phoenix, AZ (which is a 1 day trip), but was estimated at a 5 day delivery. The package arrived in Phoenix the morning of 14Dec06. Friday afternoon when I had gotten no calls from the delivery company, I decided to call them. I was initially told that the delivery would be next Tuesday (19Dec06) at the earliest. After complaining for some time I was told that I could have it delivered Saturday 16Dec06. I was also informed that there was a notation that the box had a "tear" in it from the shipper. On Saturday when the TV was delivered, I had them open up the box in my presence. Exactly where this tear was (a 1" by 6" hole) was damage from an impact (most likely a forklift). The hit was so hard that the whole top of the TV was destroyed. I of course refused the shipment and called Amazon. The first gentleman that I spoke with told me that he could not help me and that I needed to talk with the "electronics department", but that he could not transfer me. Instead, he would have to send an email to them and they should be getting back with me in 2 days. On Sunday 18Dec06, I received an email saying that they could send out a replacement, but couldn't guarantee delivery by Christmas or I could have a refund that wouldn't come for 2-3 "business" days. I called again and was told that no Supervisors or Team Leads were available and that one would call me back within 2 hours. 2 hours came and went with no call, so I called again. This time I was told that there was no Supervisors or Team Leads even working today. When I confronted the Rep on the fact that SOMEONE had to be watching over her, she was magically able to find a Team Lead for me to speak with. He told me that he could not send out a replacement nor refund my money. He said that they only thing he could do was send an email to his Supervisor, who "should" get back with me by the end of business. About an hour later, I received a phone call from someone at Amazon who was not the Supervisor who was supposed to be calling me back. He in fact confirmed this and said that he was only a Team Lead. He told me that he was told that the only thing that they could do for me was to refund my money, because they could not guarantee shipping by Christmas. When I asked when they sent out a broken TV to begin with, why they could not pay to send the TV 2nd day; I was told that FedEx or UPS would not accept a package that big for shipment. Now I have a FedEx account and to ship that TV from Reno 2nd day cost $310 and to ship it 1 day was $325. I then asked to be refunded my money PLUS the cost to buy it locally, since they knowingly sent out a broken TV. I was told that all he could do is refund my money and that I should get it within 2-3 business days. Then he hung up! I spent the next 1 1/2 weeks talking to many more CS Reps, Team Leads, and even a few "Supervisors". Every time I was told a completely different story and was told that, it did not matter that there was notations in the system otherwise. When I told them that I had been recording every conversation that I had had with Amazon I was told that it did not matter. Trying to call the corporate office was a joke too. The secretary who answered asked how she could help you and when you ask for the CEO, she says she CANNOT do anything without a name. Knowing his name, I asked for him and was told that he does not take calls. I then asked for his secretary and was again asked for a name. In the end what ended up being my TRUE options was to wait 2-4 weeks for Amazon to process a return(how you return something that was never technically delivered I don't know). After Amazon processed my "return", I could then choose to wait another 2-4 weeks for either my refund or another TV to be sent out to me. In the end after all of the lies and lack of service; Plus the fact that this was part of my sons Christmas presents (Yes when your son understands and deals with how you have to live on almost nothing, when Social Security takes almost 2 years to start paying, you go and spend $6,000 on his Christmas!). I had to file a Visa Dispute with my bank and had my money back within a couple of days. I turned around and bought the TV for $2,150 from Spencer’s TV and Appliances here in Mesa, AZ. It was in my house by the Friday after Christmas. Therefore, the answer to the problem is to NEVER use Amazon again for anything that is time sensitive or over a couple hundred bucks. Even my order that really was not needed quickly said "In Stock" on the site, but magically was back ordered, when they got their money, for a week that ended up being a month. Amazon like many companies before it has gotten too big for its britches. Even right now, I can take back products for 90 day with no exclusions and no questions at Wal-Mart.

08-12-2007, 10:46 PM	#231
sl7z What is HD? Join Date: Aug 2007 Posts: 3	Samsung HLS-5679W from Amazon I bought the Samsung HLS-5679W DLP from Amazon for $1329, no tax, free shipping. I think I got one of the last ones, because now you have to buy through Electronics Express when you go to Amazon (higher price, plus shipping). Eagle delivered my television 6 days after I put the order in. They took the TV out of the box and waited to see that it worked. It's only been 9 days since I got the TV, but it looks gorgeous so far.

08-13-2007, 10:00 AM	#232
daleb High Definition is the definition of life. Join Date: Jan 2005 Location: Clovis, CA Posts: 7,350	Overall, I've had great success with Amazon on smaller stuff. For the big ticket items I would stick with OneCall, Vann's, Crutchfield, etc. One thing for certain, they sell directly. Amazon does not stock everything, but they offer items from 3rd parties too. That's not always a bad thing, but for something like an expensive display I would rather deal with one source for the whole transaction. www.resellerratings.com is a good indicator who is doing the best job. __________________ Samsung PN50A650 plasma, Arcam AVR350, Dali Ikon6 (Vokal2&OnWalls), Outlaw Audio LFM-1EX sub, Anti-Mode 8033B, Oppo Digital BDP-83, Polk XM Tuner, Furman Elite power conditioner

08-22-2007, 12:10 AM	#234
turboscooby My plasma is High Def. Join Date: Aug 2007 Posts: 5	bought 56" SAMSUNG dlp from secondact I recently bought my Samsung DLP 56" from secondact . com i found them to have the best price overall shipped, and I received my tv within a week. so if anyone want to give them a try, i would recommend it.

04-11-2007, 03:06 PM	#228
hockster31 High Definition is the definition of life. Join Date: Mar 2007 Posts: 33	ONECALL ROCKS! Awesome price, beat best buy - by 600.00!!! Even had a better warranty. got a 61' samsung dlp with stand, cables and harmony 880 remote, 5 year warr, bulb replacement. amazing deal. I delt with Chad Gambill, he was honest and wasn't pushy at all. He also took the time to explain everything, not rushed for the next call

05-12-2007, 05:37 AM	#229
Flibmeister What is HD? Join Date: Apr 2007 Posts: 3	Another vote for OneCall. Ordered a Sony KDS-60A020 on Wednesday, delivery (Spokane-Phoenix) was on Tuesday, no problems whatsoever. I declined the $250 white glove delivery, but got it anyway by waving a twenty dollar bill at the Fedex guy. Amazon was $75 higher on the day I ordered, but was $75 less the day after; I called OneCall and they credited my card the $75 before the TV even arrived. BTW, read the fine print on your credit card agreement and choose carefully which card you use for your purchase-- the extended warranty provisions of various cards (even within the same company) work differently. I bought a Mack three year extended warranty on this TV ($210, including up to two bulb replacements) which takes over after the Sony one year warranty expires, for four years of coverage. By using my Amex instead of my Mastercard, I got an additional year of coverage that doesn't begin until after the Mack warranty expires-- for a total of five years.

06-21-2007, 11:48 PM	#230
kameleon_o A couch and an HDTV to go please. Join Date: Sep 2006 Posts: 11	I just bought a new LCD for a friend and helped her set it up. It was a deal Best Buy was offering. They offered you the choice between a Sony DLP or a Sony LCD KDL40V2500. She went with the LCD and it came with a PS3, a Blue Ray movie, and a PS3 game. All for $2089. I liked some of the other LCD's better (bigger screen or more HDMI ports) but for that price it was a great deal. Hooked everything up and it was amazing!! Excellent quality when watching the Blue Ray movie Open Season. My daughter watched the standard DVD Monsters, Inc. on it and it was really great too. Tried some other DVD's and they weren't quite as good but still good. Revenge of the Sith was great when it came to the CG scenes like the battle cruisers or planet scenes but just okay when it came to people or regular scenes. The picture, colors, and brightness of the Sony is really awesome. She had problems programming the remote so I'll have to go do that for her but she doesn't like it at all. All in all, great deal and great LCD!!!

08-21-2007, 12:12 PM	#233
JMP3 What is HD? Join Date: Aug 2007 Posts: 2	Have you folks seen the prices of the Samsung HL-TXX89S series at The High Definition Store ? Really good prices with FREE shipping: HL-T5089S - $1749 HL-T5689S - $1999 HL-T6189S - $2399 I bought a HL-T5089S from them...had the TV in 7 days. Sorry if this has been posted already....

08-23-2007, 08:53 PM	#236
BramptonAssJag My plasma is High Def. Join Date: Aug 2007 Posts: 6	Damn

09-12-2007, 11:17 PM	#237
SinCityBlitz High Definition is the definition of life. Join Date: Sep 2007 Posts: 36	Vanns.com here. August 15th we ordered a Samsung HL-T5087S and had it in house the 20th. TV came in EXCELLENT condition with no problems. I have no problems recommending them to anybody.

09-13-2007, 10:36 AM	#238
MalakaMalaka What is HD? Join Date: Aug 2007 Posts: 4	One word for you.... AMAZON Amazon delivered my television- Samsung HL-T5076S is 4 business days (6 days total including the weekend) from the day I ordered it. The tv and box was in great condition. The shipping company, I think it was Eagle Freight USA, brought the tv up three flights of stairs, unpacked it, set it up, and then asked me to sign the received slip. i felt bad because i didn't have any cash to tip, but o well. The tv is in great condition. Not to mention- the lowest possible price from anywhere including the shady online dealers based out of Brooklyn that you'd never want to do business with. Go with Amazon. You can't go wrong. My second choice would have to be Buydotcom because of their long standing reputation and low prices. I found these two online stores to be by far the best out there. Trust me.

09-13-2007, 12:29 PM	#239
daleb High Definition is the definition of life. Join Date: Jan 2005 Location: Clovis, CA Posts: 7,350	It's not a matter of 'trusting you' because of one or two experiences of one or two people. It's the bigger picture that counts. But it's your money and time. http://www.resellerratings.com/store/Buy http://www.resellerratings.com/store/Amazon http://www.resellerratings.com/store/Vann_s http://www.resellerratings.com/store/OneCall Everything has some risk, it depends on how much you want to take. __________________ Samsung PN50A650 plasma, Arcam AVR350, Dali Ikon6 (Vokal2&OnWalls), Outlaw Audio LFM-1EX sub, Anti-Mode 8033B, Oppo Digital BDP-83, Polk XM Tuner, Furman Elite power conditioner

09-13-2007, 05:40 PM	#240
mbrowning My plasma is High Def. Join Date: Sep 2007 Posts: 7	We purchased a Sony KDS-55A3000 from bestbuy's website on 9/6/2007. I selected the first delivery date they had available: 9/13/07. Last night I called and asked if they knew around what time they would be delivering the TV and I was told between 9:30am and 11:30am. To me, that is quite an impressive delivery time frame. Usually I seem to hear something like 8am to 5pm. And sure enough, they showed up at about 9:45am. And even though I thought I was only getting curb side delivery, they brought the TV inside, unpacked it, and installed it in our entertainment center. They said if we had cable or a DVD player they also would have hooked that up for us, but it's a new house and we don't have those there yet. Not bad for "free shipping."