A great source for inexpensive Ti frames is a travel company called Backroads. They sell off their used Ti bikes every fall for $799. The components are kind of goofy (Shimano 105's with XT RD's to accommodate a crazy range of gears) but it's worth it just for the frame. They are nothing fancy, made in China specifically for Backroads I think, but a solid touring frame with decent welds. I got one for my wife, who doesn't need a Lightspeed/Merlin for the amount of riding she does.