iMac Price-drop?

[Toddgabweg]

Ok I have been checking out the imacs since Nov. 06 and according to the imac buyers guide an update to the imacs are coming soon... now when this happens- does Apple discount their current line? I really want a 24in imac which starts at $1999, but I feel like I would be getting a bad deal since that price was the same way back in September when the current line up came out....
Also, when an update does happen- are the prices about the same, meaning can I expect the new 24in imac to start at $1999?
Finally, anyone know how quickly an update can happen. I assume Apple does not want word to spread quickly about an update since that would slow down current sales... I would also assume a "sale" would clear out current inventory... allowing room for the new update??? Does this happen before something new comes out?
I want to buy something and know that I have the best version for the money (for at least 6-7 months when I know something better will come out)... If I buy now I may only have the best deal for a month or two...
Trying to wait patiently... my tax return is waiting...

 

[EricNau]

Apple rarely changes their prices, even after an update (so, yes, the 24" iMac will probably still be $1999 after the next update).

Apple's products very rarely go on sale, and we don't usually know about product updates.

After an update, the previous inventory essentially disappears from the Apple Stores and is not available to purchase. Although, in some cases you can get some good deals from third party resellers who want to clear out their inventory.

 

[Cybergypsy]

Get a refurb for 1699.00 that a good deal

 

[mrat93]

Sometimes they do go on sale. For example, when the MacBook Pro was updated, the older models were a couple hundred dollars off the original price and they were still sold by Apple.

 

[Clix Pix]

In October 2005 when the first iMacs with integrated iSight cameras (rev C) were introduced, I went right over to the Apple store and was able to purchase the rev B version, the one without the iSight, with a few hundred dollars knocked off the price. Brand-new, not a refurb....there weren't many left in the store's inventory and I considered myself lucky to have gotten mine when I did. On the day of an announcement of a new revision, go over to the Apple store and check on prices of the now-to-be-discontinued model in which you're interested. You should be able to save some money!

 

[flyfish29]

I agree they do go on sale at times- and the refurbs are definately more easily aquired as most want the newest and greatest iMac. But realistically most don't really need it, they just want it.

 

[macfan881]

just keep an eye on the refurb section im geting my Intel 17" 2ghz 2core duo for 1049 with apple care came to the same price of almost a new mac togeher my dad has bought a few computers from the refurb section has had hardly have any problems and if you get apple care apple will repair any problems basicly so what do u have to lose

 

[andysc]

bought my imac off amazon. $200 rebate and no tax and free shipping.

 

[skubish]

Apple usually puts the old models in the Deals/Refurb section of their website. You might find a few deals at an Apple store. Apple runs a tight ship so they usually keep inventories low right before a model update.