Just depends on what kind of apps you'll be running on it. I have a 1600SC that I bought to use as a desktop, and it's a bada$$ computer. I threw 640MB of RAM in it, and it flies, but due to the lack of 3rd party support for video and sound, it doesn't run most games and such. I found a soundcard that worked fine for 10 bucks from www.pcimicro.com, but there have been huge discussions on the video card debate...if you're just surfing the net, or doing non video intensive things, I'd recommend it. If you plan on playing hi-res games and such in the future, I'd just build your own or find a good deal on a desktop model...

I have no need to play video games but I do have heavy graphics work with many Adobe Products that use up memory but maybe does not require a great video card. I think it sounds as if the best thought is build or but a new box.