I've got a Dell for work. However, I've also gotten rid of the lemon 8790 and traded up for a 5760. Fantastic machine.
theharlotfelon, I can't really suggest what to do, but I can tell you what I did. I spoke w/ Sager and gave them the provision that, if I ordered, my computer was to be sent USPS,
not UPS or FedEx. For some reason, USPS gets around the customs bullcrap. I got hit with that
hard when I got my 8790 (sent via UPS). USPS? No problem. I think I had my machine in less than a week from the time I got off the phone w/ sales and it cost just under US$100, I want to say.
Support-wise, you're taking a chance if you do it this way. If something happens, you're
F@#$'d. Reference my 8790 thread in my signature, like dopee said for details on how that works (or, more importantly,
doesn't work).
IF you think you can troubleshoot most problems yourself and are willing to gamble on a trouble-free machine, then that's how I'd recommend doing it. If UPS or FedEx are the only options and they won't be swayed, then take your money elsewhere. It shouldn't be a problem, though.
You can check out
TwoTop here if you're wanting to buy local. Also might want to look up パソコン攻防, they might be able to help you. I'm not sure how big they are, though. I know they're up here in Hokkaido. PrimePC offers Engrish computers, but last time I checked with them, they didn't have the higher range of PCs. I haven't checked lately, though, so that may have changed.
One option is to get a local one and swap out the keyboard & OS yourself. Keyboard=super simple (a little danger in damaging the keyboard cable, but if you're careful, you should be ok. Sounds scarier than it is).
Don't know how much more I can help, but if you want, you can drop me an email (my username at Gmail). I haven't been hanging around the boards much at all, so PMing me might not get you a very prompt response.
Edit: Was just in Sapporo yesterday and at Tsukumo Denki, they had the 5760. I don't know how big Tsukumo is, but you might want to check online to see if they have something local (or at least maybe you can order online). If that doesn't work, email me- I might be able to work something out here to get you one if that's the route you want to take.
