I have been using the prototype(?) tips that Ety sent me at the end of last year. They have been working well and lasting appropriately. They look very similar to some older tips that a few folks here sent me so my guess is that contrary to what their email said they simply went back to the old design or had a bad batch from a faulty manufacturer. I've been meaning to email them some feedback but it keeps slipping off the radar.
Lenovo's epp program coupled with the 5% additional coupon (thru tomorrow) and free shipping right now pushed me over the edge. I'll self-upgrade it to 4GB of RAM and maybe a hybrid drive which should make it a very capable little machine.
Thanks everyone. I didn't realize this thread was even here until 5 minutes ago, suffice it to say that it was a great surprise and proof once again of how fantastic a little place we've got here.