Need advice for new notebook purchase

Help me folks
I've recently had my notebook stolen, it was a Vaio FS760. Loved it and all it's functions and the software added. Now i'm having to purchase a new one i'm stuck. I've note worked with the Vista operating system and i'm scared i won't be able to get all the free software downloads i was used to under the XP operating system.

I've searched the net for a replacement FS760, but can't find anything, also i'm paranoid that if i purchase a used one there may be spyware deliberately installed for the unsuspecting purchaser.

Am i being paranoid about nothing and what's a good vaio, under £1000 for general music recording and DVD burning

The Dell XPS M1530 isn't bad in that price range. I wouldn't worry about Vista either - initially, it could be an issue, but now, almost all of the problems have been worked out.