He does need multi core. AE just isn't that highly threaded. Right now, the 9900k is the best you can get for AE as long as ram isn't an issue but the limit was raised to 128gb so that should be enough.
Either of the 2*** series top.end thread ripper CPUs will probably be your best bet. Can actually pick up 32c64t for less than $2000 that'll eat up anything not specifically for servers
so thread ripper can render prevew fast with effects on layers? will it lagg or slow down preview window as you scroll.
am looking for something real time on after effects.
Intel actually does better in AE. Even a $300 8700k beats a $1700 tr.
https://www.pugetsystems.com/labs/articles/After-Effects-CC-2018-AMD-Threadripper-2990WX-2950X-Performance-1216/
He does need multi core. AE just isn't that highly threaded. Right now, the 9900k is the best you can get for AE as long as ram isn't an issue but the limit was raised to 128gb so that should be enough.