There are some other features to look for if you are a more advanced user. If you occasionally record narration in the same area you have your computer, you know how difficult it is to isolate your audio from the fan noise. You might want to check into the slower turning, and much quieter, 120mm fans as an option.

Most of the top editing software packages now feature multiple windows with options of adding many separate toolsets, all taking up valuable screen real estate. So, if you're considering a dual monitor setup to separate toolsets from your timeline, be sure to include a dual-head graphics card. Depending on your current or future monitors, you'll most likely want to get DVI outputs.

If you plan to edit on a PC, you are probably wondering how Vista, the new Windows operating system, will impact your video production workflow. Outside of promised improvements in search ability, memory optimization, stability, and security, the short answer is, no one knows yet. As of press time, Microsoft has just released Vista. If you are interested in Vista, look for a PC that carries a Windows Vista decal. It appears the Home Premium and Ultimate editions will be the closest matches to the needs of most of us.

One last troublesome area of an HD workflow is final output. While there are Blu-ray DVD burners available from Pioneer, Samsung, Plextor and others, they are still quite expensive and in their first generation. It might be better to wait until prices and performance stabilize.

There's no doubt that we are in a transition period. Many of us will be happy to hang out in the world of standard definition for a while longer, while others are already making the switch to HD. In either case, when it comes to your next computer, just remember to trust that little voice in your head that tempts you to get more than you think you need, in speed, RAM and hard disk space -- because that voice... is right!

Contributing editor Brian Peterson is a video production consultant, trainer, and lecturer.