Opinons - Replace red ring 360 with Arcade 360 console ?

I live in Canada and now have the 3 red rings of death.

If it cost approx $140 for shipping (to Microsoft repair) I was thinking of buying the Xbox 360 Arcade unit, $199 Canadian.

Anybody know if that console is the same ? I have my hard drive and controllers etc.

It's only 50 bucks more and I don't have to wait.

Anything I am missing here ?

Thank You very, very much for any info.

Race Pro is coming !!!

I was checking BestBuy and it lists the Arcade unit as HAVING HDMI ?

My broken 360 does NOT have that output.

Now I have been told that Microsoft will send me a box and shipping is free ?

I don't believe it.

Anybody from Canada do this shipping repair thing? did it work ? how long ? cost ?

Thanks a ton.

True Dat ! Mr Martin I agree with you.

I think mine would be covered...but a repaired 360 with no HDMI or spend and get an Arcade with HDMI ?.

Decisions.