Hello John:
Thank you for you input. The only drawback for the "version 1" is that everything is set, in both hardware and software. It can't be upgraded as the original designer is somehow made enough money and quit the job. He won't release the sources code. So,it is "sold as is" unit. But the price is unbeatable for such high performance DSP controller. I make sure the price won't go higher than $300 and possible be $285 if demanding is high.
Currently, only the 2012 model (AWE-608) or future product is upgradable through the U-drive (memory drive). Plus, the new model come with 5 auxiliary I/O ports for future expansion. The card can do more as it's upon user request.
The version 1 still, come with a LCD panel in silver/gray panel. I got the good price as long as I order 200x at a time. I think that it's a good price for folks to do upgrade the K40 or other machine without paying big buck for 2012. The 2012 is totally a different product apart from the version 1 and it's targeting to the business user. It's at least 30% faster than the our 2011 model with networking support. I'll discuss more with my partner see if there is a possible to get a price break. Currently I'm ordering 25x in each shipment and price is pretty low compare to other buyer. I don't think anyone get lower price than me as I'm their direct distributor in US. Note: I'm not working for Thunder man
, the big head pretender! Not sure if they're willing to drop price for me say if I order 50x at a time. Business is a business, they have to protect their market.
Marco