Thanks guys- appreciate the responses. Hey Bruce- great to hear from you! Long time no speak. Glad ot hear the FIM is working out well. Haven't been able to audition it- as I may have told you, up here in Canada, we don't have such luxuries, and often have to committ to a cord from the U.S. WITHOUT EVEN HEARING IT FIRST (like I did with current Black Mamba). That is why I am still trying to gather as much info as I can from Audiogon posts, etc. Yah- it kinda sucks, esoecially when you;re putting out the kinda payola $$ these things cost. What do you think, for $400 U.S. (3 ft model), should I take a chance on the BMI Whale??