Researched Sanyo's XACTI VPC HD1 digital video camera for purchase. Contacted Sanyo support prior to purchase to avoid possible service issues. Notified of potential support issues with EUROPEAN MODEL VPC HD1 (E or EX denotes European model).
Called and spoke with salesman Jerry at extension 239, on 3-23, regarding purchase of camera. Specifically questioned Jerry about model number of camera and voiced concern about not purchasing a European model. Jerry claimed that it was a VPC HD1 model and that there were no other letters after the model number. Jerry tried to push extra accessories into the sale, which I repeatedly expressed that I did not want. I did not order the camera at this time.
I called again and spoke with Hank at extension 239 later that evening. I was very clear about my intention to purchase the US model and NOT the European model. Hank also confirmed the model number of the camera as VPC HD1 and assured me that it was the US model of the camera, recently released by Sanyo, with no EX after model number. I purchased the camera, with an extra battery at this time. I did not purchase extra accessories that were being pushed by hard-sell tactics, namely, 1gig SD memory cards for the camera, currently sold on their website for only $599.99. (I purchased two 1 gig SD memory cards elsewhere for approx. $45 each ($25 each after rebate!).
Due to software issues that need to resolved via Sanyo, I discovered that my camera is indeed a European model VPC HD1EX, and support is not available. After calling on 5-8-06 and talking to the salesman Hank, he assured me he didn't know it was a European model, but customer service would exchange it without a problem. Customer service was contacted on 5-9-06 and after being put on hold repeatedly, passed to various wrong extensions, and getting disconnected, I asked to speak with the service manager. He informed me that I received a VPC HD1 and that the EX on the model number was irrelevant. He said he would do nothing more than send a replacement software CD, and if I wanted, he'd give me a tripod I merely want the camera specifically ordered.
As advertised on PRESTIGECAMERA.com and listed on my invoice from Prestige Camera, I purchased a Sanyo VPC HD1 camera, yet I received a Sanyo VPC HD1EX camera. A report done from the BBB website shows I am not the first person to experience problems with the company mentioned, also doing business as: A&M Photo World, Cameratopia, Digital Liquidators LLC, Ghu LLC, Preferred Photo, Prestige Camera, Regal Camera, and Tronicity.in fact, BBB lists almost 600 complaints.
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