Spot Messenger/Connect Ex USA

[Aushiker]

I seem to be very indecisive today ... Anyway I need to make a decision on buying a Spot Messenger 2 or a Connect. I can get the Messenger locally from Mainpeak.com.au for $179.10 or from the US for about $123 via eBay.

The Spot Connect is about $249 locally and $173 ex USA via eBay.

Can anyone see any issues (besides warranty) with buying from the USA? Registration/subscription is done independent of the unit as far as I can tell. Anyone brought one O/S and registered here in Australia?

Thanks
Andrew

[chucknitro]

Sorry. I was quoting something worse

[Cspray3967]

I found out the hard way having bought a faulty unit from the US. After postage to me and then return to the US for warranty and then getting it back I paid a lot more than buying it here. I also didn't have it for as month and also lost that subscription time that i had paid for. You also don't get Australian support for use and will have to contact the US for help.
The only other issue besides the expense of having to send back for warranty is that they do not have the Australian C Tick approval for use here. That technically makes them an illegal tranmitting device and leaves the user / importer open to potential fines and prosecution. More info at http://www.acma.gov.au/WEB/STANDARD/pc=PC_1756 about the C Tick . The authorised Australian distributor for the SPOT units is www.piplus.com.au which can answer more questions and supply approved devices for use in Australia.

[mitzikatzi]

Aushiker i guess you have read this thread on mtbr SPOT 2 Satellite GPS Messenger PLB

[Aushiker]

Aushiker i guess you have read this thread on mtbr SPOT 2 Satellite GPS Messenger PLB

No so thanks for the link. Was about to do a bit of search anyway.

Andrew

[Aushiker]

I decided to get the Spot Messenger 2 locally so thanks for the feedback on purchasing overseas. I have ordered one from Mainpeak for $179.10. Best price I found within Australia.

Regards
Andrew

[Baalzamon]

Hey Andrew

Make sure once you have signed up for the services for it, you test it to ensure it is working. I found it would take 15-20mins to transmit so set it up outside somewhere and come back in 20-30. When I got to campsites etc, I would get it out and leave it in tent and come back to it and it was working fine.

[J Quinton]

See if mainpeak will price match?

[Aushiker]

See if mainpeak will price match?

Against whom? Mainpeak have been the best price I have found in Australia so far.

Andrew