Too bad Dell bought Alienware

It is really a shame that Dell had to purchase Alienware.  I bought my desktop a few years back before the acquisition and have no regrets spending top dollar for a computer that could easily be built on my own for much less.  I'm of the mind that if you want something, and it is worth it, there is no price too high for the best.  My story is no different than many posts I have seen since Dell bought Alienware and should have been a tip off not to buy from Dell.  My hope, assuming this isn't immediately erased, is that those like me will truly contemplate being treated like we are buying a bottom of the line cheap computer, such as most of the products Dell makes when comparing to Alienware. On 6/26/11 I initiated the purchase of an Alienware notebook so that I could keep up with my online hobbies while traveling for work.  The intent was that I could receive the item previous to a conference that I was attending which kept me away from home for a week on 8/1/11.  Since the order date, the notebook has been delayed 6 times without notification nor explanation besides a scripted response when I had been forced to call in.  The issue has been escalated time and time again and the only response I've received is an empty apology - not a direct answer for the cause of the delay nor what can be done to rectify the situation.  Oh, by the way, I didn't mention the configuration was over $1400 for a notebook which most people think I'm crazy for spending on a toy computer (about 30% over their competitor's prices for a machine with equal utility).  Although I would love to advocate for Alienware as I believe the system to be one of the best in class, I can no longer do so due to the treatment that Dell provides their customers.  On a side note- it appears that many share my same distaste for the treatment that Dell provides their customers.  However, as I have seen this across the board from all customer service operations outsourced to India from companies, it is not the pleasant people from India's fault.  Companies such as Dell offshore their "customer service" for a cost cutting measure which has led to American misplaced animosity towards these good people.  Companies, such as Dell, provide people in their call centers with no information nor the power to do anything for their customers - the proverbial brick wall for any service issues. It is not the fault of an entire race. As a clarification for the American people, direct your hatred, loathing, and animosity towards the company.  It is not the people of India's fault for the obvious disdain this company has for the consumer and the disregard for the effect on the great people from India.  I know in the states most of us have developed an accent akin to Apu from the Simpsons but I encourage you to stop using it.  Just spread the word that the company you have a problem with is not worth your patronage - instead of every upset customer telling an average of 10 people let's make it a thousand.