Yes Boffin, the picture I posted in reply #5 is using 4 of 8 MAX7219's I just purchased from Taydaelectronics for $1.25 each.
The board is a big one from dipmicro.com, 18cmx 30cm
FR1 (Bakelite) Prototyping PCB 300 x 180mm w/ approx. 7280 Pads - dipmicro electronics
I see they are available in that size at e-bay, search for "prototyping pcb 18cm 30cm"
~$5 each, less in higher quantities.