I actually got an alienware system about 8 months ago. Don't regret the expense at all. System has worked perfect, never one crash. Mine was the Blue Area 51 model, looks cool. I think AKDeja bought alienware system if I am not mistaken.
I had been looking at them for some time. They started selling them in Best Buy, I think you still just ordered from Alienware through Best Buy. At the time I got mine, Best Buy was selling Demos because Aleinware was putting new Demos on the shelf. They had like 50 demos in warehouse, never used. It cost $1500, if I priced same system on Alienware it was over $2000.
Specs on mine:
Pent IV 2.4
512 Rd Ram
nvidia ti500 card
win xp
I also got nice NEC 19" monitor for $200 if bought when buying the system which was a pretty good deal.
Truth be told, my WIFE actually bought the system for me for my birthday.
For me, I have never built a system & didn't have desire to. I know probably could have got cheaper system elsewhere, but this is very good quality, never had a problem, very solid machine. Don't regret the cost at all.