I bought the 659 about 6 months ago thru Amazon.com in the price range you specify.
The 659 meets every expectation I had and then some for the $$$. If HDMI is not important to you this is without a doubt the best value for the $.
If HDMI is needed look for the 661 for about $ 50.00 more.
Gene did a excellent review of the 659 search the archives.