Mine has no noticeable delay switching from record to playback - the Jamman is superb and you can record patches on your computer and transfer them back to the pedal. It's a hunking great piece of metal too so if the boss is more solid then it must be hewn from solid granite! ;-)
I would also suggest trying your local guitar shop also. Many of them are becoming internet savvy and know that they have to compete on price and you are in a position to negotiate face to face as well as trying out the instrument. Just don't take the piss and you could be surprised. I find my local shop very accommodating.
I agree with Steve - Apply some matching (car) paint with a toothpick or a matchstick and then let it dry thoroughly. This could be up to a couple of days, then superglue works, but again, wait until it's fully hardened.