Originally posted by Ash Sorry to hear this. I'd suggest sending it back for repairs. You shouldn't have to put up with that happening to you.
I certainly am! Within minutes of writing this forum posting I contacted the camera shop I bought the camera from and they are kind enough to make the process as hassle free as possible. Much thanks to David at Camera Craft in Rockford, IL.
Of course the grass is always greener on the other side, but in turn one should expect a $1500 piece of equipment to work as advertised for the foreseeable future after their purchase.