Americans: where do you buy your stuff?

[Rob_5419]

Looking for some recommendations from Americans for internet sites that sell scanners.

I've been looking for a scanner for years (personal use) and have eventually found that I like the sound of - the Artixscan F1 (having never seen any demo scans from it) or M1.

I've worked out, it's cheaper to order from the States, pay for postal charges and VAT than it is to buy one in the UK.

Any good websites to order from? Any lemons to avoid?

Thanks for any help.

[Maretzo]

Think about guarantee...How much will it cost to send back and forth the scanner in case of problems?

[Rob_5419]

International guarantee would solve that, wouldn't it?

[Maretzo]

For the spare parts and work yes, but probably not for the 2-way shipping costs.

[SamReeves]

B&H is the best.

[PViapiano]

newegg.com is an amazing place for electronic gear of all sorts. Located right here in Southern California...quick shipping and great customer service!

[Daniel_Buck]

I like using B&H when I need to buy things new. Their prices aren't always the lowest, but they have a very good reputation.

[Brian ER]

Rob

Try www.datamind.co.uk - In Uk - prices seem quite good

Brian

[Rob_5419]

Thanks guys.

Egg.com & Datamind.co.uk don't have the Microtek scanner.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/527608-REG/Microtek_110803680101_ArtixScan_M1_Pro_Dual.html

$749.95 Cost
$223.40 P&P
$225 approx Customs/VAT

Approx $1200US total to import to England. Still around $800 cheaper than buying it in England (minus Digital Ice) for anyone thinking about it....

[Jim Bradley]

Rob,
Don't forget about power supply requirements 120 VAC 60Hz vs 220 VAC 50 Hz.
JGB

[Dave Moeller]

I believe (and someone please correct me if I'm wrong) that the M1 does not have an infrared channel, as the F1 does. No Digital Ice or other infrared cleaning is available on the M1. Depending on your preference, this might make a difference to you.

[Brian ER]

Rob

Just checked Datamind site - Microtek Artixscan F1 Studio - £699.99 inc vat.

From home page click on 'Scanners' then 'Flatbed + Mictrtek' second one down is F1 Studio

Brian

[Rob_5419]

I'm incapable of making a decision. It's too complicated and I'm just not coping!

What is the difference between a Microtek Artixscan F1 Studio vs HDR vs SE?

As soon as I master the lingo about a scanner, I find there's still the software issues to get to grips with. What is Monarch? Does it matter if it comes packaged with Silverfast rather than Monarch? Arrgh. The choices are too overwhelming. They are clearly designed for consumers who know what they want...not for simple souls who just want a top notch home scanning system...

It'll take me another few weeks to digest the extra info....

PS - the American M1 is 120V or 240V compatible, but isn't supplied with the appropriate transformer for 240V 3 pin UK style.....will ask Microtek if they do that..

[Bob Salomon]

the American M1 is 120V or 240V compatible, but isn't supplied with the appropriate transformer for 240V 3 pin UK style.....will ask Microtek if they do that..

That usually means that you don't need a transformer just the proper plug to attach it to the mains.

But is it 50/60 Hz? If it isn't things can run incorrectly, like cooling fans and timers.

[Ted Harris]

Interesting, I just looked at the back of the scanner and it says 100-240 and 50-60 BUT there is no external switch.

My best guess is that all the guts are in there but there is no way to do a user conversion. I would also guess that applies to the IR circuitry for ICE.

[alexchem]

Rob,
I just love it. I try to buy from the UK. Best prices on Epson parts!! Lately I just go to e**y for everything. We should trade places like in that movie Parent Trap.But I am too old.

[Bob Salomon]

Interesting, I just looked at the back of the scanner and it says 100-240 and 50-60 BUT there is no external switch.

My best guess is that all the guts are in there but there is no way to do a user conversion. I would also guess that applies to the IR circuitry for ICE.

Ted,

That usually means that it is auto switching and senses the voltage and Hz of the power supply. We used to sell flash systems that did that. And my MacBook Pro and Braun razor also does that.

[Ted Harris]

Bob could be right but I would be wary of buying anything like this and then running the risk of having to ship it across the ocean for any repair. If you're handy you might be ok but check carefully and also take a close look at warranty terms.

[mrladewig]

Interesting, I just looked at the back of the scanner and it says 100-240 and 50-60 BUT there is no external switch.

Ted, This doesn't matter too much anymore. Most electronic stuff is autoswitched these days. Just check the label and make sure you're within the tolerances. If you can find the plug or plug adapter life is good. I was traveling internationally frequently for work a few years back to both Asia and Europe and all my electronic gear worked fine. Carrying the right plug was usually the problem.

[mrladewig]

And to Rob, I buy my LF gear from Badger Graphic. I buy my 35mm/digital stuff from either B&H or a local shop. I buy my printer items, and will probably get a scanner from Atlex.com. Atlex has very good prices on Epson components, ink and scanners and the service has been good.

Mel-

[Rob_5419]

Rob

Just checked Datamind site - Microtek Artixscan F1 Studio - £699.99 inc vat.

From home page click on 'Scanners' then 'Flatbed + Mictrtek' second one down is F1 Studio

Brian

Thanks Brian - the model I'm looking at still works out at £900.
They seem to have a sudden crop of Microtek on their website. It's marginally cheaper than the European RRP, but still way overblown compared to the Americans' M1.

Jim - I read 50-60Hz, so it should be okay!

Mr ladewig - thanks - I'll have to look into Badger. Their postage charges to England look higher than B&H for small things though.

Alexchem - you're probably one of those lucky guys on ebay. I haven't had much luck on it and don't like it at all. You can't be too old to trade places....I'm too old.
Having just retired, I quite like being 'old' actually ;)

[BarryS]

I got mine from J&R.com.

http://www.jr.com/JRSectionView.process?InSearch=t&N=0&Ntt=artixscan+m1&Ntk=All_Record_Search&lastSearch=&search.x=14&search.y=8&search=GO

They shipped fast, have the lowest price, and have a 30 day return policy. They also had free shipping at the time, although I think that deal is over. You might as well get your unit shipped from NY if it's eastbound. Make sure you pick a store that uses a shipper that doesn't rack up customs brokerage fees. If you can get them to ship USPS, that would probably be the best option.

[Ted Harris]

I hage to sound like a broken record but remember the problems you are asking for when you buy this sort of equipment overseas and may have to deal with very expensive shipping if you have warranty issues.

[Rob_5419]

Thanks Ted...


I've reviewed the situation and have decided to dither.

I'm happy with silver gelatin prints. It would be nice to get images on the web, but maybe that'll come when I've finished dithering a bit longer.

Frankly the learning curve to understand modern (home) scanner options is so boggling. I need a break..