If you're looking for a budget system, I would look closely at Dell and Compaq. I wouldn't recommend Acer.
I know a couple people that have acer laptops and they all love them and have had no problems with them, right now you can get some of the best computers for good deals with Acer.
you could try dell.com/outlet they have some good deals but they are all refurbed...
and thanks for the heads up on the 2400xt (I dont know the ATI vid cards very well to be honest)