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I've used to approaches to buying computers and accessories.
1) If I have to have the latest and greatest, I go to a store, and hold my nose. If I have a problem (and I have) I put it in back in the box, take it back, and say I want another one. If you belong to one of the warehouse clubs, Sams/Costco, etc., they have good deals. I know mail order is cheaper, but if you have a problem (and you will, if you buy enough computers) its much easier to put it back in the box and drive back to the store. I truly believe it is cheaper in the long run.
2) If I really want cheap, not latest and greatest, I troll ebay/half.com, look for a seller with lots of good feedback, and wait for a really smoking deal, something so cheap that even if there's a problem, I don't feel I got screwed.

From what you describe you want, I'd walk into a store, (Costco if you belong), pay up, pay the sales tax, and realize you're likely to save yourself hours of aggravation if its DOA.

Just one man's worthless opinion.