Best Configuration for Motion Graphics

Alright some questions for everyone. I'm trying to figure out what kind of upgrades to do to my PC to make it run applications like, Photoshop, Illustrator, After Effects(the most important), Premiere, and Maya. I know I'm going to upgrade the ram to 3 gigs of 5400. What I want to know is what is the best type of processor/motherboard that's at a reasonable price, that will get the job done fast. Do you think Dual processors or xeons and so on... Let me know please I have no idea what to do. Thanks!

Jam it back in, in the dark.

I was planning on sticking with XP pro for a while longer, as far as Ram goes I already have 1 Gig of Dual-channel Corsair XMS2 5400, planning on getting 2 GB more of the same kind. Right now I have a P4 3.4 ghz processor, do you think I will notice a big jump in speed with a core 2 duo?

How ya doing, buddy?

I think for the up coming quarter I was going to upgrade my ram.. Render you said that I won't be able to run the full 3 gb, My old ram is dual-channel and they would both be 5400. Do you mean to get the full effect I would have to get the exact same thing, 2 sticks of 512, or toss that, and get 2 sets of the 2x 1 gb? As far as the processor it sounds like I should wait, but I still don't know which way to go. It sounds like amd with the multi processors would work best, but I'm not sure.

This thing is sticky, and I don't like it. I don't appreciate it.

Alright well I guess the bottom line is would a dual processor board of any brand give better performance than a core 2 duo as far as motion graphics goes if I decide to upgrade 6 months from now? And does the video card play a huge role in this or would the one I have now work well enough which is a X800XL.

I am a dolphin, do you want me on your body?