There is a lot of talk about a new Xbox console, but I wonder how well Microsoft would do with consumer confidence where it is now. 

I've been a fan of Microsoft and own both a XBox 360 and a XBox.  But I've had a ton of problems with my XBox, and I dont know anybody who hasn't had a problem with theirs.  Yeah, they repair it for free, but I shouldnt have to worry about my XBox failing again and having another 2-3 weeks with no gaming console.  Especially if it causes you to miss the launch of Halo 3 (brother) or Call of Duty (me).  Even though I've owned all of Microsofts consoles, I have a hard time seeing myself buying the next one, and if I do it wont be an automatic, no-brainer like my earlier purchases.

Do you think Microsoft can successfully launch a new console?  I think they have a lot to prove from here on out before they can match or better the sales of Xbox 360.

they probably can successfully launch a new product in the future mainly due to the price cut introducing the xbox brand to a more casual audience. And if MS isn't stupid they will actually fix any hardware problems they find before it's released.

Yes.. their Brand Value with XBox is high.... so they can do it..

Despite all of the failures that have plagued the 360, they've still managed to outsell the ps3 by a margin of 8m so far. I'm guessing people still trust microsoft :p

yes

The question I'll ask to Xbox fans who'll definitely buy the next X-box is: Will you buy it as soon as it launches, or will you wait a bit to see if any kinks in the hardware have been worked out/there is nothing wrong with the hardware?

It's down to the games. If it has 100% backwards compatibility with the 360 and at least one new game which I'd consider to be a killer app, then I'd be in at launch regardless of the 360's hardware issues.

Although I'm not that sure I'd say I'm definitely buying the next Xbox... but the 360 has done pretty good by me this generation, so I'm leaning towards it.

You can count me out on buying the next xbox. I had so many problems with my 360 from RROD to disc tray failure. I think mostly the true xbox fans will definitely get the next xbox. I don't think I will buy another xbox console unless it had a game that I really really wanted to play.

It depends if they have the games,now if L4D (3) goes to PS4 then its gonna be tricky!

If they launch it for a reasonable price, make it as reliable as a tank, give it 100% BC and a way to transfer your GT/Achievements, I imagine the 720 will have a very successful launch. Then again, there is the third console curse but perhaps MS can avoid that.