yep keep the p4 and buy a new box (amd64x2, thats the amd 64 dual core), but as mentioned start with a regular amd64 (motherboard needs to be a socket 939 solution and preferably a nforce4) the price is real low nowadays on these rigs and it will let you upgrade to the amd64x2 once they are out and affordable. performance wise dual core realy shines in your target segment (3d,media encryption(music/video), office, 2d (photoshop and the like) and amds dual core is so much better then intels so amd is the right choice for you. But be wise and start out low with an affordable 939 system (3400 or 3500, or why not if its alot more affordable for you a 3200) its afterall just an temporary cpu in your case, and as mentioned keep the p4 for now, having 2 rigs is always neat.