advice on purchasing an elliptical

So I was recently toying with the idea of getting an elliptical machine but am on a budget. I saw that Nordic Track was having a sale thru tomorrow:

http://www.nordictrack.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Category_-1_10301_12401_19053_Y

I was looking at the 7.1, priced at $800, but would like to spend less if possible. I also don't wanna be coerced into buying a sale item just because it's on sale.

I've heard there are dependable machines for less than $500, any suggestions?