FYI: Sony's new pricing

[fjbyrne]

In case you haven't noticed all of Sony's higher-end accessories are priced the same at all retailers (it was effective June 1). Check B&H, Adorama, Berger Bros, etc and you will find they are all MSRP (or what I now like to call MMRP - Manufacturer Mandated Retail Price). It is called the Sony SURE program and is apparently being watched by the industry to see how it goes Sony SURE Program Has PRO's Attention - 5/19/2008 - TWICE.

One upside many have suggested is that it will help the smaller camera stores by putting them on equal price footing with the larger volume dealers such as B&H, etc. All that I have seen is a rise in prices.

I personally can't see how this is a good move. Sony needs to be a better value than the competition. Raising prices is the opposite of what the need right now IMO. And I happen to like a free market.

So what does every one think? What if Canon, Nikon, etc follow suit? Is this good in the short term, long term?

[Mr. Pickles]

Olympus tends to already do this, at least with the bodies. I actually prefer the "set" or mandated price model for some things, and this camera body/lens stuff is one of them. Doesn't take long to figure out the benefits of buying local once all the pricing is the same. Sure you may pay tax vs shipping, but that isn't as big a deal as all the little fellas camera stores having to buy a "store closed" sign.

If Sony had to "raise" the price at some stores (like BH and Adorama), then that is on Sony. If nobody buys their stuff at those prices, then the prices will drop, or they will quit making and selling. Hopefully they don't go bye bye in the DSLR world, but they could drop out since they are a new player in the market and don't have a lifetime of history to concern themselves with.

Just my thinking....from one non-Canikon to another....

[lviperz]

Well that stinks. I've been saving for either the A200 or A300. Now it looks like I will have to wait and save longer. Or wait till Sony decides to put them on sale.

If I get my money saved and I can afford the Nikon, then I may forgo the Sony. The main reason I was saving for the Sony was the fact I have some old Minola lens I could use.

[Mr. Pickles]

Even at the current prices, the Sony seems like better value for the dollar than an equivalent Nikon.