I asked them about the shipping as well and they told me $40 only so I went for it. I don't expect the 990 to be equal to the Meridian but I want to come close. The meridian is also modular designed which adds alot to the cost. The Emotiva had a different sound than the Meridian. If the 990 has a similar sound then it might be a keeper. Trust me I want it to do well. The emotiva also gave me a headache at reference levels where the Meridian at reference levels was just WOW. I could have listened all day long that loud. One 15 minute scene with the Emotiva was unbearable at reference levels.