Yes, they're out. They started showing up right at the beginning of September. I have still seen a few around in LHS's, but the first shipments went pretty fast. I have seen prices from $329 to $369.

As far as the radios go, if you're looking at the M8, I'd look at the JR XS3. I'm pretty happy with mine, and I think they're still being sold for $239. Pretty good price for synthesized.

However, if the SS is the only RC vehicle you plan to own and you don't have a need to change frequencies, then you could get a good FM radio for much less than the M8 or XS3.