[quote name='crzyjoeguy']just me, but i would NEVER buy something like that from a pawn shop, [/QUOTE]
dude, stop being paranoid.. if you buy a used console from gamestop it could be those exact same reason.
Most of the time people get in over their heads and they need to sell stuff off to make rent / pay bills. Usually the first things to go are entertainment stuff (like video games and dvds) . I purchased a PS2, PS1, Dreamcast, Xboxes, GBAs, PSPs, DSes all work just fine, and no I haven't been "tracked" online .. you'd have to be stupid if you log in on someone else's XBL account. But I'm sure there are some dummies out there.. even then 9/10 times it isn't stolen or anything like that..
the best video game deals in the world are at pawn shops and yard sales.
[quote name='Walt Jay']Honestly, I'd rather spend $299 on a brand-new 60GB 360, especially with all the holiday sales going on (not to mention two free games in the box).[/QUOTE]
.. the two free games are not quality titles to say the least.. Lego Indiana Jones is OK, but it isn't an AAA title by any means..
As for the OP suggestion.. you know, xbox 360s are pretty cheap these days, I would just get a new one for under 300 bucks. You don't *really* need an elite unless you really want that hard drive.