I think DX uses the early adopters -- people who place their orders early and ahead of the curve before the masses do -- in bad faith so they can test the waters and see if there is substantive demand for an item. Once orders are taken, they then make their order in proper and optimal size to their suppliers. I know: that's tricky, clever. It's indicative of the tactics and ethics in that region. I can't really be angry, I just pity these folks.

Furthermore, on at least 2 past orders, I got fed up with non-responses from DX people.

On one occasion, I tried to cancel my order. And you know what, it won't let me! Status on the cancellation page says: "On the packaging line and pending some last steps for shipment. If you would like to obtain the latest update, please contact us." However, when I go to order tracking, it says the status is: "Temporary stock shortage, contact us if necessary" Could there simultaneously be two very different and conflicting status? Obviously, at least one of these is a lie. DX presents whatever status they feel like to manipulate the buyer.

Also no such thing as a FIFO policy. People who buy the product after you -- especially if you are an early buyer -- will often get their items shipped first. When inventory is very low, but many orders are taken, DX appears to try to do damage control on their public image -- manipulating the perception of the masses by shipping the bulk of the last orders first for positive feedback. A few very angry customers is better than many unhappy customers.

Meanwhile, DX often drops the price while they are 'waiting for stock' from suppliers after you make the order (but note, you only made the order because DX tells you it's in stock in the first place.) But point is, no chance in getting a price match.

Don't trust their forums either. I suspect at least a 3 of the members are 'planted' -- agents who work for them but say a few soothing words to disgruntled buyers who post. (e.g. moneycow). Just look at the reviews of these people. Be cautious who is posting. And the moderators, they say they are not DX Employees, but believe me, they are 'agents' at the very least. Cunning and very manipulative.

Along the lines of 'paid posters' or 'planted agents', look at some of the users on this site who has given DX a 5 check mark rating, 99% of users have only one posts. There is pattern here. Hmmmm... makes you wonder. It seems like DX staff are trying to keep their score up.

On one occasion, I got myself a DOA (Holux GPS unit). No response after inquiries to customer service.

These incidents have one thing in common: when the value of the item is over $50 (GPS, aPad). That is about as much as you can trust them with one order. Sure you probably will have no problems with small items (less than $20) but think twice before you buy something significant -- could be delays, DOA or other problems.

I'm going to report these incidents to the Canadian International Trade Tribunal. I don't know about HK or China, but in Canada there are ethical standards for merchants. For the public record and with each new report of deceit, it's gonna make it harder to exist as a quasi-sham.

Poor ethics. Poor practices. It's a matter of time before karma catches up.