It seems the quad core processors are really almost 2xs as fast as the dual core.  Given that they aren't that much more expensive it seems that is the way to go.  

Poser says "up to 4" threads so I guess a 2 quad core machine won't use all 8 processors.  Vue will use all 8 cores though huh?

I am thinking of getting a motherboard that will take 2 quad core processors and just buying one quad core for now.  Later after the price drops considerably I will buy another and pop it in.  

Poser will no doubt support up to 8 cores in poser 8.

I am also very interested in speeding up the posing process.  For that the preview uses mainly the video card right?  I guess a video card that has open gl and a ton of memory is the way to go.  Any good picks for vue and poser?  

Fredric thanks for posting all this valuable info.  And very nice job on those animations.