I don't quite understand your point about the dust. If it's on the sensor, it would appear on EVERY single shot, regardless of the composition (same scene multiple times or many different scenes).
If it's a product shoot and hundreds of high-res images need to be delivered to client, can you imagine the hassle of trying to clone out the dust spots, especially if it's not on a plain background?
From some of the images that were posted early on in this thread, the issue looks quite severe, and I can imagine it would be pretty annoying.
Anyway, my point is that this issue IS (or was) a pretty big deal, and certainly not such a common occurrence with the other models. Just glad that it looks to be on its way to being resolved.
The dust that appears also depends on the scene you're taking. If now it's bright scene, later it's a darker corner, and later it's silhouette at the side. The dust issue is no longer significant, isn't it? I was referring to same scene, taking 1000 of the same frame, same composition, same lighting, even time lapse from 6.30-7.30pm, I think by 7.15 the frame would have gotten darker eventually, and if dust is on the same spot, after merging the shots, the dust will remain at that spot you still PS that spot. Do let me know if I'm on the wrong track.
If it's a product shoot and you need to deliver images, would you use a D600 known for a dust issue, or would you use another camera that will deliver what you want, with less problem and headache? And if it's a product shoot, on a coloured backdrop, it would be easier to photoshop. If it's a low key shot, it's already dark, isn't it?
It is annoying no doubt, when you get it on the frame. However, given the usage as described by many, time lapse, professional work, how many really do it? If you're really doing it, then you know it a problem, then you have the option not to get it, and opt for D7100, D800 or D4.
If you can't decide it will affect your set, you have an option not to buy it either. Not being condescending here, btw.
What I'm reading is people complaining it will affect them and it's not cheap and thus they're complaining about the D600 unable to fit their needs when there are options available? Just seems weird.
Anyway, just for discussion only. Maybe I'm less picky on my D600, maybe others are more picky, and there's also the bo hiew group. To each their own. Voicing my opinion only.