I know there's going to be a lot of ups-n-downs before anyone receives (if anyone..??) a Play.com-N800.... (hence my 'so far!'-comment ).

The only reason why I would have gone to PCW would have been because I almost ran out of patience and wanted one NOW. I don't consider PCW an alternative to shop, unless you want something NOW (as they usually have stock of most stuff).
I hope my Soundbridge arrives today so my gadget craving gets soothed a bit until after the 19th... *fingers-crossed*.