Time for a laptop... any suggestions? $1400-$1700

Hey everyone, I haven't been around Sharky for quite a while (couple months)... so I'm very uninformed of the latest technology. haaha

My question is what's a good laptop in the price range of $1400 to $1700. I do not want a Dell and HP/Compaq.

What I'm interested in is:
IBM
Sony
Asus
Toshiba
... who else makes good laptops?

Requirements:
512MB (256MB only if it's an unpassable deal)
At least 40GB HD (maybe even $60 if it fits the price range)
Centrino setup- I'm not sure how fast... maybe 1.5Ghz
A form of optical drive (prefer cd-rw/dvd or even a dvd writer, but probably won't fit in my price)

I want to buy from a laptop from a reputable manufacturer with unbelievable customer service.

Please suggest your opinions :)

edit: ATi Graphics card, 9600 or better if possible.

How's this for a laptop?
http://www.newegg.com/app/viewproduc...115-116&DEPA=3

Pentium M 1.5GHz
512mb ram
60gb HD
ATi 9700
XP pro

The price and the specs are extremely appealing. How is Acer as a company? Do they make quality products? How are they on customer support?

1 year is a skimpy warranty too. what do you guys think?

You could wait till dell has another 10% off and freeshipping and/or upgrades deal. Dell laptops really arn't that bad and if you wait a month or so you should be able to find a deal and specifications you are searching for.

Acer's been around a long time they also make the Benq hardware that is becoming more prevalant. That looks like a good deal on that laptop, I've been looking at that one too. Along with the Mitac 8050, Asus M6N, and the Aopen 1557.
Also a 1 year warrentee is getting to be the norm for laptops unless you pay extra.