IMO hardcore Zelda fans and hardcore Nintendo fans are one and the same. I really don't think Zelda pushed many consoles after its release because most Nintendo/Zelda fans would have already bought the system in anticipation of the release.
But thats just my opinion, I could be wrong...
As for the debate, I don't know numbers but I do pay attention to the world around me and I just see the XBox pulling ahead if just in public opinion. Its more mainstream and is referenced on popular TV and in the media more. I also think it is a lot more popuar in urban areas. We have an office in what could be considered an urban area (to be polite) of Philadelphia and all they talk about is XBox.
As for the increased mainstream media attention and how it affects you... I own a Gamecube and I haven't touched it since I rented Wind Waker. The XBox just draws my friends and I to it for some reason (possibly the better multiplayer games or just the sheer SIZE of it
)