Intel or AMD? Old question for a new PC

Hi folks,

We're beginning the process of designing our next PC, and I'm looking for opinions. This PC would not be used for gaming. Instead it would be used for Adobe CS4 (photos, graphics, and video) mostly. We don't update PCs all the time, but our current PC is maxed out at 4GB, and with Illustrator CS4 especially, we could really use a huge RAM boost. We want to put our next PC together that will last 3-4 years (perhaps).

So, if you wouldn't mind, I'd love to hear what you would build, and why. Which CPU, which motherboard, graphics card, etc. I know this question has been asked before, but they are usually for gaming/budget rigs. Your advice/opinion/information would be most appreciated. :-) Thanks for your time.

OK, here it is again, in the proper format.

APPROXIMATE PURCHASE DATE: By Jan 1, 2010

BUDGET RANGE: $1,500, if I have to put an amount.

SYSTEM USAGE FROM MOST TO LEAST IMPORTANT: heavy graphics, photos, video rendering, web site design, NO gaming

PARTS NOT REQUIRED: case, keyboard, mouse, HDDs, optical drives, monitor, OS

PREFERRED WEBSITE(S) FOR PARTS: really like newegg, but not opposed to suggestions

COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: USA

PARTS PREFERENCES: well, that was the question, wasn't it?

OVERCLOCKING: Not likely

SLI OR CROSSFIRE: Yes, and at least dual-monitor support

MONITOR RESOLUTION: 1600x1200, 1920x1080

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS: needs to support at least 16GB RAM, want it to last for a while, as we don't upgrade every year - more when we need to. Using Adobe Master Suite CS4 for major design projects, just so you know our main software uses. Been big AMD supporters in the past, but I just want opinions (and why you have that opinion) on what would be best for us now.

Thank you in advance for your help.

Since it's not used for gaming, intel's 1366 should suit you very well. Solid upgrade options and better at productivity applications than anything AMD has in its portfolio.

AM3 is as said above great too, affordable and again with good upgrade chances (even if you buy now).

If you want perfomance on the same level as the 1366 platform, but at a lower cost , get the i7-860. Very powerful, lower power consumption,... However, upgrading is something you can forget about (all new CPU's planned for the 1156 socket are budget offerings)

This will do nicely. I'd consider a DirectX11 card though, it's somewhat more intresting with the future in mind.

A couple of interesting suggestions. I will look into the 1366 platform, as well as read up on AMD's Leo. Thanks!