After alot of research and months of lurking here (thanks for all the great info!) we (Sean & Kathy) have decided to purchase a laser. We decided on the Epilog Mini 24 in 45 watt. It seems to offer the best starting point for us to learn and experiment. We do have some questions:
1) We have read that you can haggle quite a bit on price, free accessories, etc. What is a realistic price range we can expect to pay? We have been quoted prices for the 2 closest dealers to us but we are really not sure how much we can push the negotiations.
2)Our time frame for getting the machine is pretty open so we are willing to wait to get the best deal. We have read that at trade shows you can get some good deals (show specials). Is this a good option and if we purchase one at a show will it be provided by one of our local dealers who will then provide set-up, etc., just as if they sold to us direct?
3)Neither of used has ever used Corel. We are concerned that it may take awhile to start using the machine while we learn to use the program. We would hate to be paying it off while it sits not being used. Is it fairly easy to learn some of the basics of Corel so we could start using the machine right away or would purchasing the program and learning to use it before we buy a better option. We are not computer experts but use a wide variety of programs everyday so we pretty knowledgeable.
Sorry for the long post. We apreciate any help/info that could be provided. Thank you in advance.
Sean & Kathy