In the light of a forthcoming and really necessary upgrade I would appreciate specs and pointers to a rig that can handle sims like ROF in particular. Also, 'things to avoid' may be helpful.

Any recommendations gratefully received so that I can depart from endlessly re-playing the sims of yesteryear.

Most important question first: Budget?
Second, what specs does your current system have and what will get reused do you think?

Whatever you do it seems you should try and avoid dual core processors if you plan on using Win 7.

JAMF, Damocles,

Thanks for your input.

I really don't think there would be anything to save in what is likely to be such a big step forward. It would be better to just pass it on to a member of the family and start from scratch.

Not including the more advanced control options, stick pedals etc., I would like to keep cost in the order of £500-600. Maybe this is not realistic in terms of ROF or the forthcoming SOW but I mean to get there eventually.

My current system is basically;

XP Home Ed
AGP Radeon 9600SE 128MB
Athlon XP 2800
1536 RAM Mem

When the laughter has subsided, I would point out that all advice and recommendations will be gratefully received, built up and stored in a folder.

Not sure I agree, because I'm running 2 x dual core Intels and Win7 x64, and no RoF issues after figuring out that some affinity software I was using caused my problems. All smooth like silk now.

Dux, BitTech has in their "Buyers Guide" a system for your budget:

http://www.bit-tech.net/hardware/buyers-guide/2010/08/09/pc-hardware-buyer-s-guide-august-2010/2