After much careful reading, and comparing different pages on the Steinberg site, I think I have found the root of the problem. For many VST products there is a small reference under the “you are purchasing” section when looking for purchase that indicates you need a USB eLicenser (not the soft eLicenser). In summary, yes, you can buy this, but if you don’t already have the USB eLicenser, you will not be able to activate it.
A trap for the unwitting. 