In my search for cheap RC stuff I came across http://www.goodluckbuy.com/. They look to have an almost identical business model as DealExtreme -- low direct prices with free shipping. The major difference with DX is that GoodLuckBuy has a much broader selection of RC related components including a handful of RTF planes. GoodLuckBuy does accept PayPal so hopefully that will give buyers some protection.
Their goofy name didn't give the warm fuzzies they were completely legit so I placed two test orders with GoodLuckBuy for some 2.0 mm banana plugs and a Lipo transmitter battery. Both items shipped in 12 and 8 days respectively to my California address without a problem. I choose not to get shipment tracking which would have cost $1.50 -- something DX does for free on items over $15. If their fulfillment and shipping was slower than DZ, it's only by a few days.
Where DX and GoodLuckBuy inventory overlaps, some items look to be up to 50% cheaper than DX and other looks to be up to 50% more. Kinda hit or miss. However, GoodLuckBuy offers a lot more selection for RC related items and the free shipping is very attractive.
Just thought I would pass my experience along. Everyone will have to exercise there own due diligence when dealing with direct exporters from China, but my initial experience has been good.