the online camera dealers are not able to demonstrate the product to you. Whereas the more distant car dealer still has a lot, with cars on it that you can look at. That is a more level playingfield.
Remember, when you walk into a dealer with a showroom, and a salesperson demonstrates (or at least lets you hold and touch) some equipment, you are being serviced. You may not think that service is worth $200, or whatever. If it isn't, don't utilize the service.
David, I'll still have to disagree and just leave it. Does your philosophy hold true for Best Buy, Circuit City, and CompUSA as well?
Retailers have opened a store to the public. Salesmen would love for every single customer to purchase everything they touch. That's unrealistic and they know it. Think of it another way. The fact that I saved $200 on a high ticket item, means I have an extra $200 to spend at the local shop for consumables, shutter releases, camera bags, etc.
Working in retail selling cameras and TV's I have no problem with someone looking at an item or asking a question or two, at least if we are not overly busy. It's part of the game. Don't take up 2-3 hours of my time then announce that you can buy it on line for $20 less and no sales tax. That goes back to my prior comment of playing fair. And please don't come back after purchasing on-line to have me show you how to use it.
Butch
