P.S.

face it man. Having to fork out 3K (or possibly more) for something you are not likely to use professionally is simply ridiculous.

I strongly recommend that you try to repair and upgrade your existing PC. If that's not possible then consider buying a new PC. You really don't have to go with big brand names. In fact I just as strongly recommend that you stay away from pre-configured systems altogether. Instead, go to any computer place where you can order all the parts and have your dream PC assembled for you. That way you'll be able to get a killer PC and pay a lot less.

cheers,