I want to try a windows xp replacement. Linux? vista bad?

you sound like the ideal candidate for changing to Linux.

*64 bit version, no problem available for almost every distro of Linux

*dual operating system, no problem Linux installs a boot manager that shows all other operating systems on your computer and allows you to select which one to boot including Windows.

*dual video outputs, no problem I have done this before using Suse Linux and all that was needed was checking a box.

* DVD recorder, no problem many programs available can be used for stripping, compressing and converting video.

It really looks like you could be happy with using Linux on your system. I personally use ubuntu and find the DVD processing software exceptionally good. But you can install the software with any Linux distro.

I recommend downloading Ubuntu and installing operating system as dual-boot with Windows.

Linux is great for trying new with if you'd like to break into something non-Windows. It's also been around for a while and thus there are some bugs and issues which have been worked out or expected by people. As for Vista, I'd say wait a bit. XP is a rather mature, stable OS that's been out in the wild for several years now. Vista just got out, and while the first few times of use may seem trouble free, bugs and problems are inevitable as it is being released into the wild. I personally would wait until the first service pack is released before giving Vista a whirl. Whatever it is, hang on to XP first.

If you'd like to read some opinions (I repeat, OPINIONS) on Vista and other alternatives, please visit this page. You do not need to be a member to read, but must join the group to post. There are a few folks who have tried Vista and have put down their experiences there.

http://hardwareanalysis.com/content/article/1843/

Good luck!

I think you are wise not to switch to Vista. I plan to keep using XP until I have to upgrade, since I have already paid for it and there is little software out for Vista yet.

The problem with answering the Linux question is that there are so many different distributions, and so many different ways to use a computer. I recommend you use the Linux Distribution Chooser (http://www.zegeniestudios.net/ldc/).... This will ask you a series of questions in many different areas, after which a few distributions will be recommended. I think you will be better served by the Distubution Chooser than if each of us just recommends our favorite flavor of Linux.

I have been using Vista for about a week and I can tell you that with your specs, it should probably run pretty good for you. Most people who complain about performance problems in vista don't have a good enough graphics card. Don't go 64 bit, trust me, it might be ready in a few years but problematic right now.

As for linux, Ubuntu is the best for new people. The best part is because there is so many distros, if you don't like one, just try another.

In my opinion, a person would have to be nuts to get Vista now, since so much existing software doesn't work with it. Try Ubuntu (a version of Linux). Go to the website (google it) and you can download for free or request a CD. It is super easy to install and it is great.

I havent used Vista much, but i can tell you that Linux is a HUGE step. Some people love it, others hate it. i am neutral but would prefer windows..

Just some food for thought

xp is fine imo ... vista is not ready yet imo ... and u dont want a 64 bit operating system yet they have little software support ..

http://releases.ubuntu.com/6.06.1/

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Try all of the answers here.@