I really don't think Macs are expensive. Sure, they're a heck of a lot more expensive than 'build your own' type boxes but then so are quality systems from Sony, IBM, etc... iMac G4s, eMac's and iBook are all very low priced for their value, imo.
Otoh, there's nothing wrong with a used or refurb, either... especially if you just want to get your feet wet and see if you like it. Since Macs have great resale value you can usually make back a good chunk of your expense if you don't like it.
When I got my first Power Mac, purchased brand new, top of the line, for $3000 back in march of 2001 I kind of broke the bank to get it despite the fact I didn't need 'top of the line' power. Last fall, 18 months later, I sold it for close to $1500 and purchased a used (2001 model) Power Mac G4 Cube 500 that still has an Apple warranty until next Summer AND a really nice glass/bronze wrap-around desk.
I've bought several used Macs over the last two years and I'm not even close to being rich. I've got 6 right now.
I had 4 others and resold them for more than what I originally paid.
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sometimes..... I just wanna snuggle Leo and, I have no idea why 
