I am using the basic model(purchased in USA) in Kolkata. it has all the unique features, best audio, best functionality, ease of use, out-of-world looks(more a home decor than an audio system), clever use of space, software cotrols etc. in USD it gives value for money no doubt. but it has a very serious drawback if used in India - irrespective of the point of sale - US or India. its attractive(looks wise) in-tray for CDs, which does not pop out but sucks in the CD, does not function well with Indian CDs.
purchased in Jan 07, after very light use for say 3/4 months, my CD got stuck and the system had to be carried to their service centre. they attended very promptly and I never saw a better customer driven service centre. they promptly replaced the in-tray free of cost and of their own converted it from 110 to 240 volts. the people in Kolkata are really good. the problem, however, resurfaced again in March 08. and I had to carry the system again to their service centre during 10 to 5 monday to friday with its attendant problems for anyone working far away from their office. and each time I had to visit twice to hand over and take over. this time too they promptly attended to the fault. then they let the cat out of the bag. I learnt that at least 10% of the users face this problem in India as their "sensitive system" cannot tolerate the Indian CDs, particularly HMV(read Saregama). and no matter what, my system will have hiccups from time to time.
I think the problem is with the newfangled in-drwan CD tray and they should make it hang out like all other systems. what we really need is reliability like the Philips ad for "ramu roti" where the system apparently accepts rotis along with CDs MP3s DVDs etc.! otherwise, it becomes a costly, decorative clock-radio only.
does anyone in Bose listen and come out with a fix for me? then only I can trust their reliability and customer friendly credentials.