Online “outlets” can get you incredible deals
On everything you need to create your products
One of the exciting things about creating your own audio products is you can do a lot of it without spending an extra dime.
The ability to use your existing computer, CD burner and printer for labels and marketing materials have obliterated barriers to entry.
But what if you have a really old computer? Or what if you’re ready to move on up to a better system? That can be expensive.
However, you CAN slash the cost of this equipment. And what’s stunning is these hidden alternatives are right in front of your nose, on websites you're already visiting. And not knowing where the are may be costing you hundreds and hundreds of dollars.
Some super secret membership site? Some buried link that only the uber-geeks know about?
Try Best Buy. Apple. Epson. Hewlett Packard.
Say what?
Yep, right on these major sites are sections titled either Clearance Center or Outlet Store. They contain perfectly good stuff - most of it under warranty. Usually, they are models that have been discontinued. They can also be returned merchandise or demo models that are in terrific shape, but not fresh out of the box. Some times they are refurbished ˆ models that may be several years old but have been whipped into shape, given a new warranty, and a stunningly low price tag.
You can find computer equipment for creating your audio products, printers to help package and market them, and projectors to help you with your stunning live presentations where you can really rake it in on back of the room sales.
Now its true, most of this stuff isn't the latest model. But if you’re willing to trade a few gigabytes of storage or a bit of processor speed for a few hundred extra bucks in your back pocket, they could be for you.
Now of course, you can always find bargain used stuff on eBay. But most of it isn't under warranty and many folks don’t want to go through the whole auction / bidding process.
Now its true, you’re not going to save $300 on a $129 printer. The big savings typically come on bigger ticket items like computers, laptops or projectors. But these sections of popular websites can save you hundreds (or even thousands!) over time.
Here are a few places to check to get you started:
- Best Buy Outlet
Click on the menu at left titled Outlet Store - The Epson Clearance Store
- The HP Outlet Store
- The Dell Outlet Store
Click on either Home & Home Office or Small Business
And then look for the Dell Outlet button / menu - Apple Refurbished Computers
Look for the Special Deals Menu on the lower left side of the page - Another Great Source for Apple Refurbished Computers
Look for the Refurbished Macs menu on the left side of the screen
For your favorite e-retailer, check their menuing system for something called Clearance Store, Outlet Store, or refurbished models. If you're really ambitious you can also do a Google search on these same terms, being sure to add the specific item you are looking for. For example: refurbished dell computer.
