TyRE NOISE!!!! part II

I posted a previous thread about the above in my Octy VRS II estate a while back and the resounding response was that the excessive road noise in the cabin at motorway speeds was due to the appalling state of british roads. Whilst this is no doubt somewhat to blame, I just can't believe that a) the Octy designers could have got it so wrong; and that the Conti contact sport 2s aren't to blame.

A quick search re other tyres on the net came up with some avons, the M500 Techs see here www.tirerack.com/survey/SurveyComments.jsp?additionalComments=Y&commentStatus=P&tireMake=Avon&tireModel=Tech+M500

I called up one shop who had never heard of them, saying that Avon make only a ZZR and on other type for 18" rims and was further told that this tyre is US specific. What's more I was told that it was not sold here because it wouldn't last 5 minutes on UK roads. Can this be right? If you read the reviews it is astounding how many punters rate it compared to other makes and models (which are sold here) and how many say it reduced road noise dramatically Surely they would be suitable for UK roads?

Also has anyone else found the Octy seats really uncomfortable? I find the support is in the wrong place, in the middel of my back rather than supporting my lower back. No amount of adjustment cures it and it's really becoming such a pain that I'm thinking about other seats. Does anyone know if other vag seats bolt straight in such as the recaro numbers in the new Golf?

Cheers

Olski