Sure, but its not a $499 computer. If they lowered the price by $100 but did not include a mouse or keyboard (of course, you can use old ones) a hard disk drive (you can use an old one) or the little fan that keeps it cool inside (you can always stick your own fan in there) would you say that they are selling a $399 computer?
There you go again!!! Eloquently stating the obvious.
Yes it is. While "package" prices are somewhat common in the "WinTel" PC market, most PC prices are quoted exclusive of the monitor.