Some will say what they will about potential quality differences, but it's tough to beat BikesDirect prices on new bikes... especially compared to sourcing parts retail.
If you're wanting a road bike on a budget, and BD is still more than you want to spend, watch Craigslist in a couple cities for a month or two. I'll bet between S.F. and Austin, you'll find a great deal.
My friend got a full Ultegra Klein Quantum for $600 on CL, and it checked out as nearly new condition. Negotiated down from $900. That there, is a good deal.