Steve:
As far as the ASTRID... I'm on a waiting list for the 2nd batch. Mark said he doesn't know if it will be a kit (like the 1st batch), or will be "pre-build by IOTA".
I gather you get your ASTRID (kit) in the mail today (Tues Nov 7th). Keep us posted on your experience assembling and using it.
I'm sure you've seen that Mark made a video (it's on YouTube) that shows the assembly of the kit.
George
George Viscome