We've know that M$ has been working on the 45nm chipset for a while, and I've seen reports of it shaving 30% off the cost.  Now, I'm assuming that is cost saving related to the previous chipset, NOT n overall reduction of  each console.  Still...that is a significant reduction, and I've seen that M$ might skip the 45nm and jump to 32nm directly.  I know that as soon as M$ drops the price, I'm replacing my Elite for the power saving advantage alone, but I'm wondering if I'll end up having to buy a new Elite next year if they launch a slim as well with "cleaner" Natal integration.  So, if you’ve been able to scrounge and find any news on this, please share.

http://www.thegamergene.com/xbox360/45-nanometer-cpu-in-the-works-for-xbox-360/

“One of the manufacturers supplying the CPU’s for the Xbox 360 has revealed that it is currently working on a 45 nanometer design. Although he did not specify it is planned for implementation in the Xbox 360, Chartered Semiconductor Manufacturing’s CEO Chia Song Hwee’s comments appear to be consistent with previous speculation of a revised Xbox 360 model, codenamed ‘Falcon’.

The smaller processor produces less heat, and will reduce risks of overheating - an issue connected to the Red Ring of Death. The extra space freed up in the console could also be used to shrink, or eliminate the massive power supply for the Xbox 360. Lowered production costs could also facilitate a future price drop.

Microsoft are refusing to comment on the matter - does that sound familiar to anyone? Chartered Semiconductor Manufacturing have, however, hinted that mass production of the 45nm processor will begin late 2008 or early 2009.”

I really would like to pick up an Xbox 360 with this chip installed.

Yeah the 360 slim sounds very possible.

I don't care about the size... give me a quiet console instead !

mine is actually pretty quiet when you install the games onto the HDD and run them from there..although I do have the lite-on dvd drive in mine

Still too noisy to me

I read an article about getting a laptop fan for my 360...and the idea works like a charm...the internal fan doesn't work as hard, and my 360 is always cool. Is it quiet as a mouse...NOPe, but it's not that much noiser than the Wii for my kids.

I'll try it when my warranty is expired. Can you give me the link ?

Crap..sorry dude...it was in a issue of game informer...I'll try to see if I can find it online, but I read it in print.

"Slim" is Sonys _^tm.

But as far as this new chip-set goes, knowing them X-Mas time.