Well, honestly, I think a decent desktop replacement laptop can be had for $1300 after rebates. Costco has some-hp-model-number with 30 gigs, a 14 inch screen, CDR/DVD drive... No, it doesn't have the facy video card, but will you use your fancy video card? If you want a gaming experience, buy a real desktop... (Though, the one feature I wish I had was the ability to use the LCD and an external monitor together while displaying different stuff on each).

Think about what the $500 gets you before you decide you need to spend it... Prices have come down...

Matthew