Buying big ticket items in France

[goldenmama]

We are going to purchase a saxophone for my son and are interested in a brand that is made in France, but is available to purchase in the US as well.

Does any one know if there is any benefit to purchasing such items directly while in France?

I have heard of people purchasing European cars while in Europe because it ended up being cheaper some how. A saxophone is a heck of a lot cheaper than a car, but I thought the idea might correlate.

Thanks for any advice!

[Sarastro]

Due to the plummet of the dollar, it's definitely cheaper for the French to visit and buy in the US. Some French made items remains cheaper in France (Petit Bateau and Mephisto come to mind) but I'd check out any expensive purchases in advance before I spent the money.

[phread]

In general, musical instruments are much more affordable in the US. However, as you have a particular brand in mind, it would be a good idea to check out music stores in the pagesjaunes.fr and call for prices.

[Truffaut]

French saxophones are far superior to American models, but the cost of buying in France will, indeed, be prohibitive. Don't forget you'll also owe due on it when you import it to the U.S. I'm not sure what the tariff is on instruments, but I suspect it's between 6 and 10 percent.

[goldenmama]

Thanks for all of the input.

My son has the impression that even though we can get the Selmer saxophones in the US, that the ones they sell in France are superior in some way. My research will continue...