Does any one have real-world test results for upgrading the processor vs upgrading the video card as it applies to FS2004 performance?I'm currently running a P4 3.0 with HT (512K L2 cache), 1GB DDR RAM, and a GeForce 256MB FX5950 Ultra on an Intel 875 chipset board.I am considering upgrading to a P4 3.4 HT (1MB L2 cache) and one of the new GeForce 6800 256MB Ultra cards.Budgetary constraints means I can only do these upgrades one at a time.Which one will give the best boost while I'm saving $$ for the next?Thanks,Chris

you have a pretty decent system there, so i doubt you would notice much of a boost with either option. to be honest i would have thought the best option would be the go with one of the new 64 bit proccessors from AMD. with the 64 bit PC just around the corner getting a new 32 bit, unless very cheap, would be a waste of money. therefore if you are determined to stick with intel, go with the video card and wait untill either Intel make a 64 bit CPU or start giving there 32 bit ones free with a box of cherios.Just don't expect to see a massive increase in performance with your new card and pass the old one over here :)

Bruce:I'm stuck with the Intel set up since I can't afford to buy new mobo too. Plus that would mean a complete re-install of all software. I'm a software developer so my environment is VERY difficult to setup from scratch...I did a bit of research at tomshardware.com and found a very informative video card comparison with benchmark results specifically for FS2004.The new 6800 Ultra card has a 50% increase in performance over the 5950 Ultra!!!I'm pretty sure the processor upgrade would not come anywhere close to that, so it's card first then processor later.I guess this means I have a FX5950 for sale. Any one interested?Here are some screen shots of the card benchmarks for FS2004:http://forums.avsim.net/user_files/104696.gifhttp://forums.avsim.net/user_files/104697.gif

Just came from the 32-bit intel. I built a whole new system with the A64. A64 is better in gaming, while intel is better in video editing, etc etc. I am so pleased with my system. But many still run P4's obviously. I love mine though. You do have a very descent system. I would reccomend checking the ATI 9800 Pro 128, or the NVidia 6600GT. Even the 6800GT 128MB would be good, and just over the 300$ mark. Even if you dont want to go that high, check out the 9600XT. I lock at 30, but thats less than what you get i imagine. So still, i reccomend checking out the 6600GT or 6800GT 128MB. Nice cards, and also give ATi a look. Just came from NVidia, and i love the ATi. Great card.