Does Rigol put firmware updates on the web ? I can't find any
No, they don't. You can try to register yourself and your product at the Chinese website and then beg them for updates. Or if you happen to be served by their North American branch (Rigol NA), you can beg those. The NA branch once had firmware on the web, but they got quickly disciplined by their Chinese masters and removed it.
And when you are in Europe? "Good" news. For some time now Rigol has a technician for Europe. One for the whole of Europe. If you can track him down you can beg him for updates.
I must admit buying a version 1.0 product very nearly did put me off,
I have learned the hard way, and that does not only apply to Rigol, never believe promises of future firmware upgrades. Either something you buy does what you need it to do now, or look elsewhere.
surely a hardware company wouldn't beta test at customers expense like software companies do ?
cough