I'm in the market for a good upgrade to my DSR TRV30. I've been doing quite a bit of reading around mostly to determine whether to go with the latest DSR-PD170, Canon XL1S, or the Panasonic DVX100A. I've decided on the PD170.

I know about the best deal I'm gonna get will be online, but I've also read some horror stories about buying from the cheapest dealer.

So what I need to know is what are some of the things I need to look out for to ensure that I get the best quality camera for the least amount of dough?

1) What is the "grey market" and how can I avoid it?

2) How can I ensure I'm not buying a remanufactured camera?

3) I dont know if this is allowed in this forum or not, but does anyone have any good buying experiences and could you recommend some sites?

4) I'm in the US and I've heard of people buying online, but getting stuff designated for Europe or Asia... What are the issues with that?

Suggestions?

Thanks

Quick answer: make your purchase from a DVinfo.net sponsor (http://www.dvinfo.net/sponsors/index.php), like B&H Photo http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=296545&is=REG or EVS http://www.evsonline.com/merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=DSRPD170

I second the motion for EVS. I have done business with them and you can count on them 100%. I bought my Miller DS10 from them. Had a problem when I received the tripod. They made it right and right away. Good people.

Note: EVS has an East coast and West coast location. Service was fast from Glendale, CA to Las Vegas. I liked that too.

I have often heard B&H is good but I cannot personally vouch for them.