Even though its new...Its still worth shopping around by sending an email or two (sticking with Authorized resellers)...Some of them are offering discounts if you email them (even on the 688). Down in the $180/shipped range

Where can I email about getting it for around $180 shipped?

Check the authorized web resellers listed on harmony's website and use the contact info listed on the individual resellers site to inquiry about their pricing for the sst688. You might start with http://www.av-outlet.com/ as I know they have a good price. Not sure if Surfremote has determined what they will sell it for (several vendors discount the 659 about $50 of what they list if you ask).

I'm a bit confused. What is the point of buying from an authorized reseller if you can get it much cheaper from an unauthorized reseller? Is this a warrenty issue? Thanks for your help.

Harmony says they will not provide warranty support if you buy from an unauthorized reseller (ie somebody not listed on their website...see the warning posted on the harmony website). The remote will still function (unless it breaks) and you can still get configuration support from them for the life of the product but if it breaks you may be screwed. Basically you are paying to ensure you will get a replacement unit if it breaks within the first 366 days as well as the authorized stores should provide a certain level of support that harmony has some control over. It seems the authorized resellers are doing a pretty good job of keeping their prices near some of the "unauthorized resellers" In general places like buy.com and others that arent on the authorized list get their stock from the same distributors...its all a little bit of a game and ultimately you may lose (or not) if you go that route

You specifically state you found it in the range of $180 shipped, cant you just state where you found it for that price?

FlasHBurN, I can't speak for davisdog and why he didn't give a specific dealer name, but I know there are a couple of the authorized dealers that are active on this board and post regularly.

Out of respect for the value they collectivly add to this forum, some people may not want to point you to a specific reseller, but let you check pricing with them and make your own decision. I also believe that there are forum rules that prohibit these resellers from posting pricing here or soliciting your business on the forum. They also have agreements with Harmony not to advertise below a certain price, which is why you should contact them directly.

From what I've seen, many of the authorized folks will get down to within $5-10 if not match the "grey market" vendors out there. IMHO, it's worth a few bucks to deal with someone who has invested time to know the products they sell. That, and you get a vailid warranty buying from an authorized dealer.

For an easy return policy and valid warranty, you can also go out to your local Best Buy and pay full retail price. I think Best Buy is great, but not that great.

Cheers

rayd5365,
I couldnt have said it better myself.

Flashburn,
I think I gave you a good place to start in my original email (if you use the link I provided)
Like Ray mentioned there are one or more dealers that frequent this website also and are more than willing to provide good advice and input to the forum about the products (and seem to get consistent praise from their customers) dont over look that when you figure out who you buy from and what you pay.
-Steve

I think if you go to the Harmony web site and check ALL the on-line authorized vendors, you will be pleasantly suprised.