Help choosing please

Blitz3D Forums/Blitz3D Programming/Help choosing please

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Hello, fed up with my P3-600 with slow graphics card so looking to buy a new PC with fast 3D.

Basically, what spec system will I need to stay fairly useable for 2-3 years?

1) Am I better with Intels P4 or AMDs Athlons or Athlons64?
2) What speed processor?
3) Do I need a top end graphics card e.g. ATI 9800Pro or would a more cost effective ATI 9600XT be good enough?
4) Any systems you would recommend? (Thinking about Dell Dimension 8300 at the moment)

Would like to hear your opinions.
Marg