I agree,
Time will tell, but if the 9800 performs like 8800GT or GTS in SLI it will outperform the x2. But at what cost? New technology always demands a premium so it will COST $$$, and imagine if ATI certifies CrossfireX for Intel X38 or X48 motherboards? Having an x2 and 3870 or two x2s will blow away everything in the water. AMD/ATI are not quite as arrogant as nVidia in that regard. Additionally, the drivers will improve over time lessening the performance difference, and it's possible newer games may not show as big of a difference. ATI's Vista drivers seem far more polished than nVidia's and exhibit less performance difference than in XP.
Now one can say "What about two 98xx cards in SLI?" and my answer would be "Enjoy spending the money on a 780 motherboard and 1200w power supply", whereas an x2 and 3870 combo might work fine with a 750 watter, dual 98xx SLI won't. I guarantee that.
Not a fanboy, I have both cards and love them, but speculation is always fun :)
10e
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