Panges,
I got mine at music direct i think and it was cheaper than that as i remember, also Audio Authority also carries them from what i remember.
As far as Amarra, it works with itunes as a platform so good for your applelossless. Also the just released version handles flac files but i haven't quite gotten used to the way it works yet, i just did the software upgrade yesterday. You can make play lists or pull from files it seems with flac files. Easier to use with itunes if your stuff is mainly that.
As I upgraded the Amarra got better and better. You can really tell the difference as you get more detailed equipment. My upgraded dac after the dacmagic(which services my speakers and HD television) is a PSaudio digital link with an additional $1500. in modifications done to it, actually more than that but i bypass some USB clocking i upgraded with something called The Diverter version 2. The Diverter is a very high end USB->S/PDIF converter. So when ready you can ploop down alittle over 3K
and you will hear a difference over the dacmagic that is very noticeable, until then be smiling with your wallet full and your $400. dacmagic playing lovely music too.
Oh back to the Amarra, you can download a demo that has drop outs on line to compare it with your normal system and see if it makes enough of a difference, or you can do a 30 day trial, which is what i did. You have to deposit fifty bucks you get back later if you don't want it. It really helped me with my ear fatigue so well worth it to me. My system is pretty crisp and it takes out the digital edge.
Good luck,
dallan