Thanks guys for all the compliments. Yes, it is a great machine to own. Has a lot of presence with it's size and weight.
Couple of answers to the questions:
a. Yes, it is not easy to import vintage equipment. Suffice to say I had my share of problems. Since the value of the equipment was high, I employed a Customs Clearing agent, who helped in paper work and formalities, without which I would be still going around customs.
b. As far comparisons with EMT 938: the 938 is a design derived from EMT 950, but without the modular architecture, but has similar elements - very light platter, suspended subchassis, motor torque, optical/magnetic speed control, EMT 929 tonearm etc. Therefore the sound signature is similar. The resolution of MC transformer/preamp on 950 sounds better with better resolution and dynamics. But I can say it will be not be very far away from a 938. What differentiates more than sound, is the longevity, serviceability and design based on discrete parts for longer service life.
c. In fact all the EMTs offer nothing for modification. It is a simple plug and play unit. One must use the EMT TSD 15 MC cartridge to get the original intended design and house sound of EMT. I am presently not, and hence under utilizing the performance of both 938 and 950. It costs around 800 Euro and should be buying soon.
Hope these answers provide some insight.
Cheers.