After reading all the comments I have decided to buy the SE stick. I found it online, in-stock for $114 including shipping. I know I am paying $50 too much but I do not want to wait indefinitely.
time is money - no doubt. i’m sure you’ll love it. and if you end up putting a bunch of hrs into it & want to upgrade internals - it’ll be a snap. literally. but i’d enjoy it as-is first. kudos & enjoy.