Having heard similar stories about the iRex site, I decided to use their UK distributor (Libresco) instead. My order was confirmed immediately and the DR1000S was sent that same day!
Since I live in the Czech Republic it took three days to arrive. Having ordered on a Tuesday afternoon, then, the device was in my hands by the Friday morning!
Overall, I was delighted with the service from Libresco and recommend them highly. Here is their website:
http://www.iliadreader.co.uk/