Thanks this is great info for me. I'm not a newbie but haven't had to buy a computer for several years so have not kept up with new stuff. What is an opteron or barton based system? Is this the chip?

I really hesititate to get him a desktop, because, well, you know its so cool to be portable, dude (15 yr old speaking). But some kind of funky thing would be great. I know he is thinking a laptop, but would probably handle the emac thing as its not too cumbersome and is kinda cool.

Would you recommend doing video editing on a laptop? Do they make any cool, funky laptops that can kick butt ( at a reasonable price)? I know I have to max out the ram, processor and hard drive - should he have an external hd too?
Oh, and I know (from being over at macrumors forum) that they all save to get SuperDrive, not combo - is there something like that for laptops/pcs? Or does that just mean dvd burning capability?

i have actually heard a few good things, or should i say, AMD keeps coming up in my exploration of this topic - is that like a super fast processor or something? Sorry if I ask dumb questions - I'm trying to think of everything while I am here for the moment.

OH, also - I already have premiere, but will prob look for an entry level program, but not TOO entry level, because he'll have that figured out by the end of the week - no doubt.

Thanks again for your suggestions! I so appreciate it! I'll check in again tomorrow!
Vid Kid Mom