http://blog.seattlepi.nwsource.com/digitaljoystick/archives/134392.asp From article: "I've been told that the supply constraints are due to supply chains regarding the quality of ODDs (optical disc drive) and GPUs (graphics chips). It didn't help that no one in China works for 2 weeks during CNY (Chinese New Year). And it's confirmed 100% that the HD (hard drive) is moving to 60g standard. Those configurations are in design verification testing right now. I'd bet that this changeover also contributed to the lack of units. When MS changes major sub-assemblies like this, they try not to over produce the old configurations. So this is a case of poor planning, supply chain and quality issues restricting production. Not demand outstripping capacity (supply)." This would explain some areas running low on Premiums and Elites. It's all guesswork, but it makes sense. For the record, I see All SKUs in my area (Philadelphia/Jersey).

Yeah same here. But I'm in the same area [Delaware]. I can go to any chain and have my choice of Pro/Premium, Elite, and Arcade/core. Some stores have all 5 configurations.

I figured this had something to do with a new SKU.

wasn't PS3 and Wii also made in China? Hmm, somehow they got people to work during those 2 weeks.

>"I've been told that the supply constraints are due to supply chains regarding the quality of ODDs and GPU.

Honestly, the quality sucked in the first place, so the 'standard' for them can't be that high to begin with.

This is like the 10th thread speculating on x360 shortages and the reasons behind them =/

EDIT: I just looked and there are 5 on the first page alone.....

I guarantee you that Sony and Nintendo shut down their factories for CNY, just like MS.

The key difference is that neither Sony nor Nintendo has their head jammed up their ass quite as far as MS when it comes to planning, build quality, and the manufacturing process.

 I think they give workers pretty good incentive to stay and work those 2 weeks. Trust me, I'm from China, I know how people are. Chinese new year is a HUGE deal, but money always comes first. Especially working in an foreign company's plant.

Really?

All I know is that when I've tried to get stuff from China in the past, the bastards never worked during CNY. It was always a pain in the ass for me because in the last company I worked for, January-March was the key season and Chinese products were basically out of the equation for a month or more. Combine that with Western companies being pretty much useless for the last two weeks of December and it became a real headache.

You did call this before rocketpig. I have to admit that it might be a possibilty.

 lol, you just need to know the people. ;), Also, a little bribe never hurts anyone. 

 I've seen (and heard stories from relatives) that people would work for salary (no more 1.5 or bonus) during New year's eve. Possibly the most important day in Chinese's calendar. And the same people would be more than happy to take home a little bit of money instead.

 Lately the inflation has been killing the general public, I wouldn't be surprise if people rather work than stay home.