Emu XL-7 & MP-7 User's Group

My XL-7 has given up the ghost, nothing happening, changed leads, 
plugs,still zilch. Emu have suggested to put back in for service, 
fair enough.
Thing is it's been bugged since I got it. Initially it would only 
stay alive for 20 mins then 'freeze' requiring to be turned off for 
30 mins before trying again. Sent to get fixed, some problem 
with 'starter chip' - away 8 weeks ,had only had bloody thing 4 weeks.
Has presented with ongoing difficulties ever since, control dial, 
recording in song mode etc etc could go on.
Reason I'm raising this is, has anyone else had so many difficulties 
or do you think my XL-7 is kaput,as I have from the start.
Any other suggestions would be grateful. XL-7 now 17 months old, shop 
didnt have any others at initial time of problems.
Cheers Dom