I've had minimal issues with channel freezes on s2 channels at times but usually mother nature had something to do with it. I've had audio issues with my s9 since I bought it, there are times where I have no audio at all- even after checking all connections and all possible menu and audio settings. Box has a mind of its own. It sounds like your not to keen on the fw upgrade EC, why don't you just go back to the original one you had, I'm sure we could find it.