Buying electronics

francezoe · #1 (**permalink**) 29th June 2009, 10:55 AM

We will be moving to France in September for a year and are trying to sort out what to bring and what we will need to buy when we arrive. We will need audio speakers for our computer so we can listen to music over the internet and also a printer. I am trying to find the name of an electronics chain so we can see how much they will cost. Can you give the names of any French chains?
Thanks

minesthechevy · #2 (**permalink**) 29th June 2009, 11:37 AM

All items readily available, although more expensive than in UK certainly - I guess that would go for Canada too.

Try DARTY - Le Contrat de Confiance. Télévision, vidéo, multimédia, électroménager hifi et téléphonie., But.fr, and conforama.fr.

Bevdeforges · #3 (**permalink**) 29th June 2009, 12:34 PM

Just my two cents, but Darty is the best website to check, as they list all their stock with prices (normally including delivery). But and Conforama don't seem to post their current stock online. You may also want to try FNAC. Their online service is supposed to be pretty good, though it has been a while since I last used them.

If you'll be in the Paris area, try surcouf.fr and lots of folks I know really swear by pixmania.fr for electronics and computer stuff.
Cheers,
Bev

Coton90 · #4 (**permalink**) 30th June 2009, 02:24 PM

This is my favorite:Saturn - produits.

If your buying the kind of speakers that plug into the headphone slot in your computer, they're probably cheaper in Canada or ordering them on-line. Your going to pay a high value added tax in France.

If you're only going to be in France for a year, you may not want to invest in a lot of 220 Volt items. It may be more economical to purchase a $30. 300W step up/step down transformer.

Bevdeforges · #5 (**permalink**) 30th June 2009, 03:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Coton90

If you're only going to be in France for a year, you may not want to invest in a lot of 220 Volt items. It may be more economical to purchase a $30. 300W step up/step down transformer.

Also, many electronic items (especially those made in Japan, China or other Asian countries) are already set up to take dual voltage. Check the label on the power supply. If it says it takes 110-250V, then all you may need is the adapter plug.
Cheers,
Bev

mikecambrai · #6 (**permalink**) 2nd July 2009, 05:21 PM

Don't forget if you are thinking of buying a computer in France the keyboard is not querty!!!!!!!!!!!!
Makes typing interesting.