OK... for the first time since OS 7.2, I need some advice about purchasing a new Mac!

AS the title says, I'm having problems deciding between the iMac 24" and a Mac Pro. The most labour intensive task I use my computer for, is movie making. Mostly iMovie, but I will purchase Final Cut Express at the same time as the hardware. I intend to purchase 2 GB of RAM with the computer. I have an old 21" Apple Studio Display CRT (and an Apple 17" monitor for my second screen), but would love to have the 24" monitor with the iMac!

In your opinion, should I buy the iMac and upgrade the processor to 2.33 GHz as well as the video card, (which I can afford to do) or should I buy JUST the Mac Pro with two processors (2.66 GHz - can't afford the 3.0 GHz!) as well as 2 GB of RAM, and continue using my monitors? Do you think I will notice much difference while using FC Express?

Thanks for your opinions!

[gg67]

I have a 20in iMac and I love it, but I wouldnt know about the Mac pro, i have never had one...

[Windowsrookie]

I don't think many apps will ever take full advantage of the four cores, so I would say get the iMac. But thats just me.

[jdcfsu]

I'm currently typing this on a 24" iMac and I've got to say that there isn't anything you shouldn't be able to do on it. I've played with iMovie and edited a few things already with no slowdown at all. I can't speak for FCE though as I've not played with it.

I might be biased but I'm throwing my vote to the iMac with the 2.33, 2GB ram and the high end video card. MacWorld and PC World's benchmarks both show that the 24" iMac with those upgrades actually compete with the 2.0 MacPro, and considering that once you add in the 23" ACD the iMac is $1000 less, I'd say it's a pretty good deal.