Ok, perhaps cell phones aren't really 'on topic' here, but they remain an essential tool for many of us gigging musicians who cana't afford to miss calls from potential clients, when traveling on the road to/from gigs. So now that I've convinced at least some of you that my topic is appropriate here:

I'm currently looking to switch cell phone service providers. I'm currently with T-Mobile with my contract over. I'm considering switching to Cingular, as inside my house, Cingular's cell phone 'signal strength' is far stronger than T-Mobile's. Another advantage going with Cingular is that since I also have SBC as both my DSL internet & landline telephone provider, and Cingular Wireless is also owned by SBC, SBC is offering new Cingular Wireless customers a substantial discount on their SBC bill if Cingular Cell Phone service is added to the total package.

Ok, here's my question: If I purchase cell phone service (and new phone(s)) DIRECTLY from Cingular, the price for the phone(s) is MUCH HIGHER than going with a 3rd party Cingular provider. For example: if I purchase a Nokia model #6620 phone directly from Cingular on a new 2 year plan, it costs $199, yet with only a 1 year Cingular contract with Amazon.com, I can get the same Nokia 6620 phone for $24.99 (after rebate). I've noticed there are a lot of these HOT phone deals (offered with new cell service) by '3rd party' Cingular online stores. Curious if they're legit and what (if any) risks are involved purchasing Cingular cell phone service from Amazon.com or Nokia, who offers the same Nokia 6620 phone for $49.99.

Many thanks to all for advice & feedback on this.

Scott

[This message has been edited by Scottyee (edited 08-30-2005).]