Capn Design Archives: The End of Import Prices?

The End of Import Prices?

June 12, 2004

As I type this entry, I am downloading Ash's new record, Meltdown. The record was released in the UK on May 17th, but their label in the U.S. (Kinetic Records) just folded, so they have no official release date here. Nonetheless, I am downloading the record through iTunes (iTunes link) for $9.99. I could also buy it as an import through Amazon for $25.49.

Obviously I'm happy that I'm saving $15, but the fact that iTunes is offering U.S. customers British and other European releases is even more exciting. My spidey-sense leads me to believe this has something to do with the impending iTunes Europe launch, which makes me wonder if these import albums were intended to be released to the U.S. or if this was a lucky mistake. If it was intended, then I'll be happy as a clam. In the last year, I've probably imported a dozen albums from the UK, and I would have saved a ton of money if I could have just downloaded them.

This technology could theoretically rid us of the pain of importing albums. When there is no extra cost for shipping or packaging, I should be able to buy the album at the same prices that are available overseas. And, it seems, that is the case right now. I just hope that Apple is able and willing to release a good number of foreign albums to the U.S. market. If they do, I may stop paying for import discs altogether. Saving $15 makes it worth losing out on packaging and a higher quality AAC file. For me, this is bigger than Airport Express or the new G5s.

Comments (3 comments so far)

Comment #1:

I LOVE the new design. Ef those haters who dis the stripes. I dig 'em. And Google Ads? Making any scratch?

Posted by emceebard on June 13, 2004 at 4:26PM

Comment #2:

Matty, that new ash album aint so hott. Its like foo fighters lite.Let me know what u think.
Oh and I dig the new look. I really dig the stripes.

Posted by charles on June 13, 2004 at 5:49PM

Comment #3:

Some scratch, yes, but it's not a whole lot. Although it seems I'll be able to cover my hosting costs each month, which is good. Hopefully it will go up over time and I can get a CD or two on top of that.

Posted by capn on June 14, 2004 at 9:02AM

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