I have bought one in the states and a few here, i wouldnt buy one abroad again, the savings arent there anymore.
Today, although the profit margin on a camcorder at dixons is 50%ish, there are plenty of cut throat dealers in the uk willing to sell their souls if necessary to get the business.
I have used this strategy :
Decide what models you want to buy and know the model - cut it down to only 2 or 3.
Buy a camcorder mag and scan it for the latest discounts available
Phone the discount boys and play them off against each other. When they say who offered how much, quote one of the discount cos and subtract 100 quid. If they offer to match it, say no, i want it for less enough to make me buy it from you.....
After a few calls you wil know the true market cost of the device, and can pick a dealer.
The web is a reasonable starting point (use
www.whichwebtrader.which.net they have a list of safe dealers that is a good point to go from - consumers association) but knowledgeable haggling gets the best deals.
The US couldnt compete with stiff deals in the uk on price alone - forget the other hassles that are introduced.
One i have used is Krish's in Chiswick, no better or worse than others, but i bought a Panasonic 3 ccd camera (nvdx100?), U]at the time.[/U] 1800 in Dixons, for 1150, plus 10% off all accessories[