Thanks for that AngryPixie,

I've just ordered an AMDX2 4600+ duel core 65dn low watt [low heat] model. I know the specs. say that similar Intels across the range are a bit better performance wise [unnoticeable in the real world] but gee, the low prices on AMD at the moment are amazing due to the rush on Intel and the recent release of the quad cores. $160 for the 4600 so prices have plummeted to a 1/4 of original prices.

I'll go with a nForce 570 ultra mobo for the AMD and a 7600GT video card [a little bit of gaming gets done on my rigs :-)) ].

I'm still unsure if Vista is worth the bother and expense. I had heard there were some stability problems with certain programs. Sounds like there might be some heat issues due to the extra power draw needed.