http://www.nvmax.com/#1032537674
Word came in from an anon emailer that has relations with some ATI folk that ATI will introduce a faster version of its 9700 chipset sometime around January.
Because TMSC has switched wafers to .13 micron ATI will be able to ramp up the clocks and use faster memory to cut short NVIDIA's NV30 right at launch. The emailer said ATI folk sounded 'optimistic' about this new version being as fast as NV30.
ATI already have the R300 core rolling so will be little design overhead where-as NVIDIA are busy trying to be in time for the Christmas rush.