In pricing out my D2 or Z1, it is clear that I can get a unit for a LOT less money if I stray from an authorized dealer. I realize I lose my Pioneer warranty with that. Are there other hazards? Can these units be trusted? Are they refurbished or Pioneer "seconds"? No one seems to want to sell a warranty on something that doesn’t have at least some of the Manufacturers warranty on it. How often do these things break? What’s the general opinion of the board members here on these discounted internet units?

Lee

Some places are selling new and some refurbed. If you buy through ebay you can get a warranty through square trade for 3 years even on a refurb. I purchased my D1 for $530 and another $99 for a 3 year full replacement, transferable, no deductible warranty. Scroll down on the auctions and look for the get a warranty button. Good luck.

Thanks,

Unfortunately for me, residents of the state of Virginia are not eligible for Square Trade warranties. I asked why, but got a typical BS answer about regulatory mumbo jumbo..

I bought mine from an un-authorized dealer to save the $600 and haven't had any problems. It looked brand new and was only a few months old according to the manufacturer's tag on the back.

I'm guessing that means it was new.

Bought a Z1 from a dealer in NJ over eBay, and got a Z1, Bluetooth, and iPod for $1,700 shipped.

Can't beat that!