80gb PS3 could fall to 499 USD
499 USD entry price 'here to stay'
Industry analyst Michael Pachter is predicting that the PlayStation 3 console could drop to 499 USD once stocks of the 60gb console are gone. The 80gb system presently retails for 599 USD with a copy of MotorStorm, while the 60gb model has been priced at 499 USD "while stocks last". Pachter predicts that the cut to 499 USD will be for a stand-alone 80gb system.
"In our view, the Sony entry level price of USD 499 is here to stay," he explained.
"We believe that there are presently 2 to 3 million 60GB PS3s produced and not yet sold, and expect the entire supply to be diverted to the US to honour the new lower price point.
"Once these units are sold through, we expect the company to lower the price of its 80GB model to USD 499 on a standalone basis."
Pachter expects another cut for the 80gb model in early 2008, taking the system to somewhere in the region of 399 USD.
More analyst speculation as we get it.
