Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

Ordered this card on 24 Jan 2017 and received it on 26 Jan 2017. I was aware of the thermal issue but purchased it because EVGA's thermalmod website indicates cards purchased at this time should have the new firmware. Upon arrival, I pulled the serial number off the unopened bock label and entered it into EVGA's website. I must be one of the lucky ones who received a card where EVGA recommends a VBIOS update and the "Optional Thermal Pad Kit". In other words, AMAZON is shipping products known to have issues since EVGA's 01 Nov 2016 (or 21 Oct 2016 depending on interpretation). I've built many systems, but I do not look forward to cracking my card apart for the thermal pad installation after paying $400+ for a product. I understand that EVGA will cross ship RMA my card as an option, but that means waiting for EVGA to ship the replacement. Shame on Amazon and shame on EVGA for not clearing the channel of defective product!