Quick... Someone talk me out of buying an AUS New3DS before I destroy my wallet...
I've only seen it on PlayAsia for $235 (including shipping), and that is admittedly an extremely reasonable price - I can't expect to find one for much cheaper. Of course, I'm also not 100% certain it will be on a firmware lower than 9.3, although It's highly likely it will still be on 9.0.
Overall, I'm trying to get pros and cons here. I'm in America, so I have to worry about region restrictions in the future. I don't want this to be an impluse buy, but as far as Gateway compatibility goes, I'm running out of time.
but food money...
Okay. Just stay calm. You might be able to get a New 3DS with 9.2 or lower in the future. It will be rare and more expensive, but it will be possible to get one. On the other hand the chances not to get a 9.2 or lower New 3DS right now are slim (maybe non existent, as charges of 9.3 or 9.4 N3DSs are unlikely to be leaving the factories right now). In the worst case you could just buy a Sky3DS and stick to EUR roms.