I think I may be the only person on the planet earth that has a P4 other than hardware website reviewers. Here are my specs:
Pentium 4 1.5GHz
ASUS P4T Motherboard
256MB PC800 RDRAM (Samsung, 2x128)
WD ATA/100 40gig hard drive, 7200rpm, 2mb cache
GeForce2 GTS 64 (not ultra, this is my "weak link"

heh
MS Precision Pro Force Feedback 2
Linksys ethernet card, cable modem
SB Live! Value
Windows2000, WindowsME
I've been workin on this system for a while, and my cpu just got here today. It's great. I wouldn't buy a P4 if I were you, I only have one because it was given to me as a gift. Plus, the mobo cost around $300, which is pretty hard to swallow. I only hope the i850 chipset is here to stay for intel.
My prediction is that once compilers become optimized for NetBurst, and software catches up, the Pentium 4 will shine.
Later,
Andrew
PS feel free to email
acallan@mail.utexas.edu with questions about building P4 boxes. I'd love to help.