Apple closed the gap up significantly with the new machines. The only thing the MBP really had in previous generations over the MB performance wise was the graphics card. With the new machines, the differences isn't so huge.
While the 9600 will still outperform the 9600, it's not going to be a huge deal unless you rely on graphics performance to make a living. In that case no laptop is going to come anywhere close to the performance/price of a desktop.
Anyway, I digress, I wouldn't count the Macbook out. Performance wise I doubt you will notice a huge difference. I admit the extra screen is nice, but you have to remember it comes with extra space requirements. Consider how much you will be moving it around. I lived with 1280x800 on my 15" HP for several years and never knew any better.
While the 9600 will still outperform the 9600, it's not going to be a huge deal unless you rely on graphics performance to make a living. In that case no laptop is going to come anywhere close to the performance/price of a desktop.
Anyway, I digress, I wouldn't count the Macbook out. Performance wise I doubt you will notice a huge difference. I admit the extra screen is nice, but you have to remember it comes with extra space requirements. Consider how much you will be moving it around. I lived with 1280x800 on my 15" HP for several years and never knew any better.