Originally Posted by armagebedar

Beyond the usual language issues, I recommend shopping at a brick-and-mortar (or reinforced concrete, as it were) store, both because you can test the exact unit you buy on the spot and because prices from online stores that accept credit cards aren't appreciably lower than those from the big electronics retailers. Also, Yamada Denki will often be willing to lower their price to meet you halfway compared to the lowest prices on kakaku.com. The tax rebate process is easier as well.