A little direction please.

[Arct1k]

I'd hit traxxas up they will almost certainly get you a replacement ESC for free - If nothing else it can hit ebay and earn you some cash...

I have a brand new MM with new firmware that i just ran for a few mins on 20.2v but no bets if another will do that same... I run mine on 4s Lipo / 5s a123 which is about the most that people will run at.

Personally I'd opt for the hedge bet at the moment and buy a cheaper MM / 8XL setup and see what happens with the MMM - I know its been promised for ages but does seem much closer now...

The MM/9XL will set you back $200 vs almost $600 for a NUE/MGM - A large chunck of the $200 can be recovered too at a later date as MM hold their value used very well. On the performance front it will take you leaps forward - You could then invest $250 of your saved money in a good charger and set of batteries.

Thats my 2c...

PS you will need a $20 UBE with the MM...