At the risk of REALLY showing my ignorance, (I am new to here ya know LOL) who is "Nick" and how can I reach him?
Sounds like you got plenty of answer, hes worth calling. These machines seem to be the hottest item on the block. Im sure with pricing they are going for shows one of the reasons why. For the most savings you can get from a TM you get a well built machine, small foot print for maximum space saving, light weight than any other, powerful specs better than all other brand names I saw, easy to work on, etc... All at the best price you can find. Trust me, I shopped around.
As far as durability and longevity from what I hear so far so good. Maybe someone whose had one for years can back that up.