Okay, I run my own Custom PC business, so I'd really like to help here. As a Sonar 3 user, I would have to say that creating your OWN system is the best way to go to get the best bang for your buck. I can easily help you create a Sonar monster for a LOT less than you think and ship it right to your door. Let me explain.
My company, Custom Computers of Virginia, is a small home business based in Richmond, Virginia. I build HAND BUILT computers made to YOUR specifications for a LOT less than any major manufacturer. I do this by buying directly off the web from wholesale distributors. Bottom line....I can MAKE you a better PC for your money.
If your son has been working with Home Studio, and appears to be making strides, I would seriously consider investing in a Computer that can help him make the jump to bigger and better things. Sonar 3 is the next step up, and can go way beyond Home Studio in terms of capabilities.
I would recomend a machine with at least a 2.4-2.8Ghz Hyperthreading processor. Sonar 3 takes advantage of the power of the Hyperthreading processor, and allows for a LOT more tracks, effects, etc. I would also recomend using either a SATA (Serial ATA) hard drive, or at the least, an ATA100 drive with an *8Mb Cache*. These drives allows for slightly better throughput performance which equals more tracks.
I could go on and on, but the bottom line is, I could build you such a rig, minus the monitor, for under $1,200.00(thats a rough estimate depending on what you want). And that would include a 52x CD Burner to burn his creations straight to disk. I would be happy to discuss the details and any questions you might have.
Here is my website:
www.ccv.vze.com It has my contact information. Please feel free to call or email me and we can discuss it directly. I GARANTEE I can build you a better computer for less money. I have a long list of happy customers and can provide refrences if needed.
I can tell you from my own experience that my 3Ghz Hyperthreading rig is simply awesome when it comes to music production. Sonar 3 runs like butter on it, and I have no problems working with 20-40 tracks with plenty of effects, and I have plug ins out the wazoo.
Feel free to contact me directly if you like to discuss it further.
Axeman
James M. Meyerhoffer
CEO
Custom Computers of Virginia