Benchmark will be distributed to the press on the 30th, NOT the public. I can't put enough emphasis on PRESS. Unless you're a member of the press (with proof) forget about downloading any benchmark on the 30th.
Actually, you play HL2 and get temporary enjoyment out of it. I use Macs for visual FX and graphics design, and I make long-term money out of it. ;)
You're a gamer, I'm a gamer/worker hybrid. ;) You like PC's, I like em all. Linux, Mac, Windows....:)
Shipping replacement parts doesn't take very long, anyone can do it. Now try shipping your Dell back to Dell for fixing. I've had my airport card replacement sent and received within 3 days.
Anyways, I got the money, so I have both PC's and Mac's, I'm experiecing it all, that's joy of...
The G-Man's the emperor, he pulls all the strings...he acts like the good guy, takes over Earth's senate, calls martial law, kills Black Mesa, Gordon joins the dark sid--nevermind.
I'm just going sit back, relax, and wait for the 30th. If nothing by then, I'll sit back, relax, play Jedi Academy, Halo, Homeworld 2, and wait a little more. And if it's delayed for another year like HL1, I'll sit back, relax more, play some DX2, Stalker, Doom III, etc. etc. And if it's...
Never buy the last product from a generation of video cards...
That's my rule. I'd say get the Radeon 9800 Pro once the XT comes out, for more value, and still a lot of power.