On the contrary. Intel can only sell its chips at heavily discounted prices, and AMD will meet them there with their lower end chips. A A64 3000+ is yours for $211. I think that is a very reasonable price. If you still find that too expensive, how about $79 for a 2500+ ? BTW, previous top of the line P4 3.2C can be had for $273. Prices have never been this low.
= The views stated herein are my personal views, and not necessarily the views of my wife. =