Apple store returns

Getafix

I'm after one of these secretly upgraded mac mini's with the 1.5GHz processor and the 64MB Graphics card that are rumored to be in circulation. I'd also like to upgrade the RAM to 1GB. I'm not that fussed about waiting for the new Intel mac mini's as I require it now. But if I'm gonna get one, then 64MB of video RAM is better than 32MB

Now if I buy it through the online store and I get an old 1.42GHz/32MB mac mini then I'd want to send it back and try my luck again at getting a 1.5GHz/64MB one. However, according to apple's T&C they will charge me £60 transportation costs to return it

What I would like to know is, if I buy a mac mini from the Apple Retail Store, can I...

1. Get the extra RAM put in at the shop?

2. Ask them to plug it up so I can verify it's the 1.5GHz/64MB model.

3. If unsuccessful in 2. above, can I return it myself for a fee-free refund, i.e. will I be charged a restocking fee?

Many Thanks in advance!

newfoundglory

I'm after the same thing. I'm gonna order a 1.42 combo drive with upgraded 1gb of memory, working on the assumption it will be custom built with the new stuff.

You should be pretty safe for an upgraded model if you customise it online.

I don't think the apple retail store would open it for you to test it. BUT, if you went to an apple retail store you could check its production week and other things which are on the box which would give you a good indication if you have an upgraded model or not.

I could go to the apple store in london, but I can save £75 if i order online...

Getafix

you could check its production week and other things which are on the box which would give you a good indication if you have an upgraded model or not

Sweet! What sort of things should I look for then?
And how are you managing to get £75 off - Business buy? I can only find a £41 voucher and I think that may have already expired.

newfoundglory

i have a £23 voucher which i got in an apple store email (expires end of the month).... plus you get 10% off with an egg money card.... bargain... (499 - 23) - 10% = £428 ... or even less if they subtract the voucher before adding vat.

I'm not sure when the new models started shipping. Might have been around week 37 or 38 (september)

I was thinking of getting the superdrive with 512mb ram for the same price, and then upgrading the ram myself. Not sure though, since you have to pry it open. The advantage is though, that I could sell the existing 512 chip on ebay...

Might find this useful.

http://forums.macrumors.com/showthread.php?t=150128

Getafix

I gotta look into this egg money card. Thanks newfoundglory!

newfoundglory

Yeah, i got an egg money card just for the apple discount