Thanks to all for your comments.
As it turns out, since my need is rather pressing, I was able to get an Emotiva MMC-1 B stock unit for $450 delivered by calling them. While it doesn't have the 40% discount for upgrading, it still has a 5 year warranty and a 30 day trial period.
(Undoubtedly, the next generation of the MMC-1 will have better HDMI connectivity and other goodies. However, they are stuck waiting for Cirrus to release the chips and so they have no idea when they will be able to ship.)
Thanks again for your willingness to spend some time on this question.
As it turns out, since my need is rather pressing, I was able to get an Emotiva MMC-1 B stock unit for $450 delivered by calling them. While it doesn't have the 40% discount for upgrading, it still has a 5 year warranty and a 30 day trial period.
(Undoubtedly, the next generation of the MMC-1 will have better HDMI connectivity and other goodies. However, they are stuck waiting for Cirrus to release the chips and so they have no idea when they will be able to ship.)
Thanks again for your willingness to spend some time on this question.