help me make sense of this

[Optik]

I want the uwatec smart pro.
lp has it for 450
local shop says 660 plus tax.
Iam having a real mental debate on how this makes any sense either way, do i save 200 some odd dollars and take the risk or pay the money to the lds and have security? Is there any real benefits to paying 200 dollars?
keep in mind iam a college student.

 

[mikswi]

Maybe tell them that you can get it cheaper on LP. Tell them that you would definately like to support their shop but you just cant justify the $200+ price difference, being a student etc.

Their response will tell you if you want to do business there anyways. If they Bash LP and your desire to shop there then, you probably dont want to give them your $ anyways. If they really DO want you as a customer now and in the future, they will make some kind of adjustment on the price.

Good Luck

 

[MyDiveLog]

I bought a Light Cannon from Leisure Pro, plus a battery pack (over $300). It leaked on the first dive, water got in, causing battery acid to leak all over the innards and ruin the new light. The manufacturer, because I bought it from lp, said I was SOL and refused to honor any warranty. My LDS intervened, DESPITE the fact that I didn't buy it from them, and it was replaced at the LDS's cost. I've heard many other stories since then that parallel this.

Can you get away with it? Probably. Should you? Sure, if you never once go to your LDS for advice on what equipment to buy, or help on getting something to work properly, or for advice on dive travel, or advice on how to improve your skills, or getting the proper fit on gear, or for classes (which they usually break even on), or for their help in finding a dive buddy, or for their free air fills.

Look honestly at the LDS ... do they seem to be making a ton of money? I'll bet they're not .. most of the LDS's seem to be struggling financially, breaking even at most. Two in my area have closed in the past year, partly because of the internet buying. Is it worth it to you to ensure that they are around in a year?

 

[Optik]

I really hate to even bring up lp, it has never been a pleasant experience after that. However, the main worry in my mind is the battery replacement and the recall issue.

 

[lairdb]

I bought a Light Cannon from Leisure Pro, plus a battery pack (over $300). It leaked on the first dive, water got in, causing battery acid to leak all over the innards and ruin the new light. The manufacturer, because I bought it from lp, said I was SOL and refused to honor any warranty. My LDS intervened, DESPITE the fact that I didn't buy it from them, and it was replaced at the LDS's cost. I've heard many other stories since then that parallel this.

Um, why did you bother with the manufacturer or your LDS? LP makes clear that they warrant in place of manufacturer's warranties, and should have happily repaired (or more likely) replaced your unit for free -- many have experienced this support from LP and so reported here.

--Laird

 

[Atticus]

I agree with the comment about "talk to your LDS and let them know that you saw a $200 savings on LP and see what their response is".

The shop I'm with now will work to get your business. They usually can't match LP's price (different cost structure, etc), but they will add training, package deals, etc. to try to make it a sound financial choice for you to buy from them.

If all they do is put down LP and say that LP's goods are second rate then (IMHO) they have the wrong attitude. Frankly LP sells the same gear the shops do. The "it fell off the back of the truck" certainly appears to be mfgr BS. With the volume of equipment LP sells this is just about impossible. LP is a major reseller (like Sport Challet).

What you really can't do is to buy from LP and then expect the local shop to help you with future gear purchases, repairs, advice, etc. That's just not fair to the shop.

My advice is to find a shop that you can work with. To understand that you'll be paying a (LITTLE) more for the service you get from the shop, and to work on building a long term relationship with them. This worked out best for me in the long run.

 

[Quarrior]

I agree with Atticus, talk to the shop and see if they are willing to work with you. If not, find another shop. I had the same issue with my original LDS, now I drive 30 miles one way to the one I use, but, it's worth it for the service and reasonable prices. They have even recommended I look on the net for some things that they knew they could not sell me at a low enough price. Great people to work with.

 

[Optik]

thx guys, i think i will talk to the lds, cant hurt right.

 

[ABQdiver]

Scuba Pro is VERY protective of their retailers! If you buy a Scuba Pro computer from one of their authorized suppliers the computer will be covered, end of story. When the battery needs to be replaced they will replace it for a life time and calibrate the computer. If you buy from an unauthorized dealer, you are on your own, and changing the battery costs $200 or so.

I have a Smart Pro and love it. It is a very nicely made piece of equipment and its nice to know I have the backing of the LDS and the manufacture too.
I also have a Vyper that I bought from a overseas dealer. It still works fine, but I know if it develops problems I might as well pitch it because fixing it would not be worth the hassle.

I just decided that it was worth the extra dollars to get the "service". Not all dive items need this level of warranty and service. A pair of fins, a mask you could get anywhere as long as you know they fit you.

 

[Atticus]

...and changing the battery costs $200 or so....

I'm sorry, but this is outrageous.. How can any company expect $200 for a battery service? Even if you do have to recalibrate the computer afterwards? Wow...

That being said, I am all in favor of buying from authorized retailers and getting the warranty and service that comes with it. I just hate to see people gouged.

Another perspective on the computer/battery issue - I purchased an Uwatec bottom timer which you *throw away* when the battery dies. I get the added peace of mind knowing that the electronics and battery are potted in the unit and that a flood is extremely unlikely. The battery is expected to last about 4 years, and then I'll buy another.