I got my Metrum Octave back a few days ago. Metrum was very good dealing with the problem I had in terms communication, return and update over the period afflicted with custom clearance delay etc.
Anyway, it is here and I'm really enjoying it as RBCD only. Highly resolving, quite refined and big soundstage. In time, I intend to setup a MacMini -USB SPDIF front end to try out the hi-res material but as it is, I'm really enjoying the RBCD performance even in the early stage. Vinyl is my main playback choice but I also listen to a DIYHiFI supply Satch NOS Dac with tube output stage and YDA1B Dac. My setup is Supratek Chenin 2010 spec or Cary SLP-05 preamp into a 4 way Azura horn setup with Accuphase F-25 active crossover for quad amping ( all SETs except for push pull for the 15" woofers). Very good value IMO.
Btw, what happened to the other thread specifically about the Octave? It got wiped.