Buying a Mac
 

Does anyone know of any good sites to buy a good new Mac and editing software?
Or second hand stuff?

Hi Trent,

Well, where does one begin? There are loads of places to buy new, just look inside MacUser and Macworld UK mags, to name just two. And then there's the Apple UK online store, which is doing an interest free deal at the moment.

As for S/H, there are also ads from dealers in the back of the Mac mags.

There's also the Apple's refurbished deals only on Wednesdays on the Apple UK store.

Herts. aye? Same here, sort of. It gets complicated when you live right on the borders.

I'm actually nearer Cambridge.

Never owned a Mac before and not really a computer fan. Just happy with them once they're up and running!

I've checked out the Apple site but for someone who doesnt know much about the various parts and software needs, I wish they'd just sell the whole package together.

I'll check out the Mac mags and go from there I think.

The are some A/V Mac specialsits who could sell you a whole package, though do ask here before you go for one as they do have a tendancy to put together packages with more expensive peripherals.

http://www.gotsc.com
http://www.creative-graphics.co.uk/

Two that spring to mind.


I configured systems for others from time to time so can appreciate how daunting it must be if you're new to this.

But stick with it.

I ordered my used G4 from www.macofalltrades.com and was fairly pleased with the service and prices.

http://www.smalldog.com/

these guys have a great rap in the mac world. I have used them, they can get factory refurbs directly from apple with warranty and you save good $$$!

plus they sell new as well.

Chris

I also like Small Dog, but will they do international sales? And would you lose any price advantage after paying shipping and tarriffs? (Trent appears to be in the UK)

Another great place is "The Chip Merchant" for your RAM needs. I've always found their prices excellent and have been using them since the mid 80's. See http://thechipmerchant.com. Same caveat for overseas sales however...

Well noted
 

I've sent an e-mail for a price and postage (as I have with a few other companies people have kindly listed), so i'll let you know when (if) they get back to me

What's the point of suggesting US dealers. Trent is in the UK and there are plenty of Mac A/V specialists here.

You would have to pay duty on imported goods anyway, which would cancel out any savings you made.

The two I suggested and any of the larger dealers advertised in the UK Mac magazines would more than meet your needs.

You don't say what you intend to use the kit for. This could influence what equipment and from where you purchase.

That's why I asked the question Simon. OTOH, this board is based in the US, and when people see a topic like "Buying a Mac" they might take a look at it because they're also in the market. So personally I don't see any great harm in others sharing some of their favorites, even though they may not be of immediate use to Trent.

Everyone has a favorite dealer. Several have been mentioned and I will add our Sponsor, Zotz Digital to the list. The sponsors help defray the costs of operating this community, DV Info. There are no sponsors in Europe at this time and Trent's question is appropriate. To avoid me having to close this thread, please confine responses to dealers appropriate to Trent's location. If anyone has questions regarding this policy please read the DV Info FAQ.

Blimey, look at me causing trouble.

Ive sent e-mails to all the companies mentioned. Not too many responses but it is bank holiday.

My filming to begin with will be a couple of official football videos, car training guide and cookery videos shot on mini dv.

Trent, it's a legitimate question on your part. DV Info has no sponsors in Europe. But we try to keep the endorsement of non-sponsors to a minimum. Sponsors don't carry every product under the sun. But for those that live within their service area, all we ask is that you give them a call and give them a shot at earning your business.

Very helpful
 

I've no doubt annoyed people by posting in several topics but thanks to everyone whos replied so far.
If you have a go at people posting - surely in the long run thats counter productive as it might make others stop - just when you need it.

For the record, im waiting to see if there are any bargains on Apple tomorrow on their refurb' day - thanx to whoever told me about that.
Im also waiting on a reply by alienware on the PC side as they now have their own UK branch and seem to be very good on price. same with promax. thanx to that tipster too.

A tip to others in the uk. there seems to b a common scam on ebay. the best deals i ofund on Macs and dv cameras from uk locations, once e-mailed ALL said they were actually abroad selling bankrupt stock. i didnt get burnt but im guessing its a rip off scam. either that or one incredible coincidence!

Trent, Maybe it would help to back up a little and say what kind of editing you want to do?

If it is mostly tthe basics then an iMac or eMac will do, perhaps adding 1 or 2 firewire drives.

If you want to get into more advanced editing and are thinking FCP then you might want to go up to a G4 tower.

On the other hand, you might want to go the laptop route.

The people on this list are really good and can provide advice on what you should be looking for in the refurbished market.