ORIGINAL: Silent-AV8R
As far as the 12FG goes, I have not seen anything that makes me think there is some systematic issue with it. The reports of people with no issues are far greater, but generate less noise, than the reports of issues. If you are uncertain about yours, send it in to be looked over. Perhaps that will give you some peace of mind. I know every 12FG I have seen has performed flawlessly.
This is exactly what a few other friends have said as well (one of which owns some HTUSA's and would certainly be aware of any bulletins, alerts, recalls, etc., and he said he has seen nothing of the sort.) They know of no problems at all with the 12FG, say it's a good rig. But, since I got it used, and even though it is in excellent condition just as advertised, they still say it would be a good idea to have it looked over...even if there were no suspicions of a lurking problem.
My gut feeeling is that there is nothing wrong on a recurring basis with the 12FG/FASST system...period.