Please recommend PC config. for visual effects

[Spandana]

Hi all,
I am looking for a good desktop configuration for visual effects. I will be using the softwares like Maya, After Effects and Realflow, sometimes at the same time.

Thanks,
Spandana

 

[Ketchup]

Are you looking at buying or building?

Do you have a machine you are using now for these apps?

What is your budget?

 

[Spandana]

I am open to both. I currently use a laptop, core i7, 8GB RAM, NVIDIA GT 550, 1 TB hdd. The bugdet is 1000$

 

[Ketchup]

So you do need something that does better what what you have? or equal.

If better, do you know what part of the laptop is holding you back?

 

[Spandana]

I want to go for a better one. I encounter problems when i try to run more than one of these s/ws and the graphic card is unable to support Realflow to the full extent.

 

[Spandana]

I am planning on building a desktop computer. The budget is actually 1500$

 

[Ketchup]

Thanks for the info Spandana.

Here is what I would do:

2. Create a new thread in the General Hardware Section answering the questions from the first post in this thread:
http://forums.anandtech.com/showthread.php?t=80121

There are more people visiting that thread that can help with choosing the parts for a new system. I will say up front that your budget should get you a really nice system for what are are wanting to do.