well, my local prices have been revised
Before
GTX280 899
GTX260 499
HD 4870 449
After
GTX280 699
GTX260 449
HD 4870 349
....also makes the 8800GT(512MB) rediculously cheap at 239
9600GT is 169 >.< i might soon have the cash to start buying a new system..... heres hoping.