Coupons, deals, or hints for buying a Sony Vaio Z?

The Vaio Z looks amazing and all the reviews (and you guys) rave about how it's so good. The only problem is the price... as you've all heard.

I'm ok with buying the base model with the 128 GB SSD since I can use an external HD. But it's still pricy at nearly $2000. So, does Sony have any big deals or coupons? Are there certain times when Sony gives out deals? Are there any websites I can stalk to track down Vaio Z deals? Finally, are there any inside hints on getting a good deal?

Thanks for the help.

 

I am also in the market for a new notebook as well. Right now I have MacBook Pro 13 and looking to replace it with Sony Z13 series.
As far as deal goes, right now Sony Style (online) has base Z13 model for $1699.99 online price. Not a bad price point during this holiday season.

Also I read on this forum somewhere that if you call in or go to Sony store, you can get student discount with valid student ID. (5% is what I read, I can't remember exactly though.)

Another deal I found is from Microcenter. They don't have stores in every states but if you have one near where you live, they have silver model with base spec with Win 7 Pro and fingerprint reader for $1699.99 too.
(sometimes they have open-boxed ones for a cheaper price but those should be dealt with caution as they are returned orders.)

Anyways, hopefully Sony will have coupons for Z series near Christmas season.

 

That is correct, you can get a 5% discount with a student ID. I know they can apply the discount in store when they verify your ID, but I'm not sure if they can do it online or not.

When the next refresh/ new model comes out, the current Z13 series will go on clearance, the Microsoft store (online or brick and mortar) are known to have real good deals. When the Z13 came out, they blew their Z12s out for $824. Just depends how long you want to wait, the next refresh will probably be February looking at previous trends (refresh every 2-3 months).

 

Ok, so I should wait until the next refresh when Sony blows out their previous sock. Omg! Only $824...

And I have no problem getting a Z11 or Z12 since the specs are nearly the same. I've been looking on ebay and the prices are almost the same.....

 

Here is an Ebay seller offering a brand new Sony Vaio Signature Collection Z Series laptop model: VPCZ12AHX/XQ for just 1500$. Scam?

Sony Vaio Signature Collection Z Series** - eBay (item 130461886129 end time Dec-08-10 18:50:45 PST)

 

No it's not !!!

eBay Feedback Profile for jcww85

 

Let the logic decide man... would you believe in that? a $4700 laptop being sold for $1500?

 

i forgot the /s tag

 

O__O
Are there any helpful tips for buying on ebay? Obviously, you look at the feedback ratings, but what else should I do to avoid scams?

 

if the price is too low... there's something very wrong. What i've found out from Ebay is that it's really a bad place to get anything new that's has a large market presence and is sold in stores. For one, the person selling on Ebay probably did not get whatever they're selling for wholesale price and they've got to pay the Ebay fees... not to mention, if you're looking for a good deal... so is everyone else... keep in mind, things bought off ebay usually have to warranties.

The things that are good to buy off ebay are things not readily found in stores, international things (like my ZeroShock III sleeve), used items, discontinued parts, etc.

I find Craigslist a MUCH better place to get things. There's no "Buyer Protection" but at least you can see the item before you purchase it.

 

Just put a Z13 on eBay with several items included. Two weeks old, extended and regular battery, Vaio Case and 3 year Accidental damage warranty.

Just trying to help the community. I just took delivery of a loaded Z13 with 512 SSD and i7.