Yes, this is the point. They could have delayed and sold more when they did launch, but another delay would have been even worse for Sony. They had already delayed how many times...?
Additionally, Sony is losing either $240 or $300 per PS3 sold, depending on which one you buy. They are taking a serious hit, and can't even make it up on the software sales like the console companies usually do.
I remember when the original Xbox came out, Microsoft was losing $80 per, but made up the difference in software...that and they have more cash than you can imagine...unlike Sony which is hurting...
Yeah, the point is, Sony launched with 200,000 fewer than they promised. They are losing a bunch on each, and they aren't expected to be able to produce enough to meet demand for 6-9 months (at least). Sony might be just a little too far behind to catch up to Microsoft.
I wonder how many, if any, buyers of 360s or Wiis bought them when they tried to get a PS3 and failed...?