Is it more cost-effective to repurchase?
A/V Trends
The A/V industry has changed dramatically over the last 22 years that we have been in business. Build quality of A/V technology has dropped dramatically, while features and affordability have climbed dramatically. Some of the interesting demographic trends we have noticed, are that the older generation of users, will seek out repairs, while the newer generation heads straight for replacement. Here are our thoughts:
Efficiency is Key
If the cost of repair exceeds 50% of the cost of replacing your unit with the same, or newer model, it is usually a safe bet to upgrade. You will get all the new features, with the added safety of a new manufacturer’s warranty. If the total cost of your unit is less than $199, it’s a safe bet that replacement will always be more efficient than repair.
Consumer models of camcorder, projector, and audio equipment are really never worth repairing. A great example with projector repair: repairing the Optoma HD20’s commonly sold at Costco cost approximately $600 new. The parts alone for repairing image discoloration are approximately $200. As you can see, with any labor costs, the cost of repair is more than 50% the cost of replacement.
The Opposite is Also True
If you have a high-brightness projector like the Sanyo PLC-XF46N that is used for business presentations or entertainment productions, then the answer is a resilient YES! You should fix it. Capital investments in high quality microphones, projectors, and camcorders are certainly worth the cost of the repair.
Preventative Maintenance
With fewer analog parts, many A/V equipment owners have forgotten that their units require regular preventative maintenance. Projectors need to be cleaned to prevent power issues. Camcorders need to be realigned and calibrated to guarantee quality color reproduction, and mics need to be maintained to guarantee high quality sound reproduction. Reduce the cost of pro A/V equipment repair by creating a strict Preventative Maintenance Schedule
Extended Warranties
Consider reducing the cost of total ownership with extended warranties from providers like Banker’s Warranty Group and Mack Camera Warranty
About Digitron Electronics
We are a consolidated repair services firm specializing in the repair of Professional Audio Video Repair. We frequently work with production companies like Encore Productions, broadcasters, and integrators, to repair and maintain projector, camcorder, broadcast, and pro audio equipment. We are also a third party logistics company helping support brands like Panasonic Broadcast, Sony Professional, and Tascam in their QA, Repairs, and Tech Support needs.