Dude, I bought a Dell!

[Keith Justice]

I'd probably get this one, man. Seems pretty solid on all fronts.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834147470

Had another friend say I should go for that model...

Here are some other options I was pointed toward:
Lenovo

HP

I have to admit... some of the "better" options... I really wish they were somewhat prettier.

 

[Ragna "D" BloodEdge]

This one's pretty slick. I'm pretty sure the price tag's a steep one, though.

http://www.asus.com/products4.aspx?l1=5&l2=25&l3=0&model=1188&modelmenu=1