I'm just hoping their high-end and 2nd to high end of next gen cards have 512-bit or 384-bit buses again.

There are definite points (AA enabled in resolutions 1920x1200 or higher) where the extra memory bandwidth is vital. As I plan on owning a 24" LCD widescreen with my tax rebate (it's a maybe at this point) that is something that I look forward to.