The funny thing is that in Korea, the price of the Korean version of PS3 has been rumored to be anywhere between $650 to $750. So this price $550~$590 seems to be "very cheap" and "affordable" by some people.
I am not saying it's not cheaper than other regions. I am just saying that it's not that cheap in an absolute sense for a gaming console (well, maybe not for a Blu-ray player) for any average Korean consumers.
For comparisons, Xbox 360 in Korea has an MSRP of $450 (premium), but they are sold for $350 or so. It is considered a bit expensive by some.
I agree 22psi. and it needs to happen otherwise it could be its demise.
IMO The price needs to drop for me to buy one, plain and simple, I really don't care what bells and whistles it comes with, I just need to get my foot in the door to this whole next gen deal. For all intense and purposes I can't even look at the damn door due to the high price.
I am just saying that it's not that cheap in an absolute sense for a gaming console (well, maybe not for a Blu-ray player) for any average Korean consumers.
Well when PS2 came out, it was at the time when US price was 200$ and they still sold it in Korea for around 350$ (I forgot exact price). IIRC PSP was on the high end too, and don't even get me started on Sony TVs going for 3x the US price... so PS3 pricing is certainly a nice change.
Especially considering that as you note, street price will likely be lower yet.
Kind of the reverse of usual mentality here where gullible people are paying 10x premium on some items(like imported furniture) because that makes them feel better about the exclusivity of their purchases.