So my Canadian friend sent me the Bunchin stand, opened it and the stand is bent. Box is fine...definitely something happened at the factory. Sony US will not exchange it, Sony Canada won't do anything either. Only the original purchaser may return the item. (Seriously?). So instead of paying another $40 x 2 shipping, I am stuck with the stand. Really not happy

but that's what I get for trying to save $300.
In order to exchange it: First told I need to send it back to the friend in Canada, then the purchaser needs to send it to Sony, or take it to a Sony Store. Of course by the time it gets there the 30 days for exchange or return will be over... Just a little about this conversation; was told by this rep that he shouldn't even be talking to me as I was in the States and calling the Canadian company. How did Sony know that the damage didn't occur during his shipping the item to me? How does Sony know he didn't open and damage the item...I was getting a little peeved and stated that the box was pristine, unopened when it arrived. When I asked to speak with his super he stated that he was not and would not 'escalate' this as obviously I understood what he was telling me and he had other customers to help. He then disconnected the line.
I then called back and the nicer North American sounding customer rep, set up an RA so I could return direct to Sony Canada, but then the new unit would be sent to the purchaser in Canada, and again then they would have to send it to me. I do not want to put all this extra crap on my friendship, so it is what it is.
A word to the wise..was told "there is no warranty for Sony product outside of the country where it was purchased". So if you are in the US and buy something in Canada, not warrantied in or by Sony US and visa versa. Also goes for any where else, ie buy in Europe etc.
I guess your SOL if you are military and/or move from country to country.
And so goes my life..............