Amazingly, I was able to find a place not too far from me that had these available to play with. Buying one wasn't much of a decision once I had my hands on it.
Pretty sure they're talking about the skin. I once made an El Bulli recipe that called for peeled walnuts. I was only able to do it with nuts I had just cracked open- the ones that came shelled had skin stuck on like glue.
Not sure how soon you want to take the dive, but this thing has been "coming soon" for months. Looks promising though.
http://www.waterbaths.com/products/sousvide_products.html