I made this choice, only to make the audio, especially editing and mix.
My config:
Pentium IV 3.06 GHz
2048 DDRAM
120GB HDD
Recording often outside of a DTD (with microphone Oktava Mk012, Audio Technica and Rode), I use it primarily to edit and mix on Pro Tools 6.1

UTILIZATION

Not very complicated.
Beware, however incompatibilities with ASIO cards, or some problems related to ATI graphics cards.
Once launched Pro Tools, the config is so intuitive that already, if only a little practiced

GETTING STARTED

XP is stable. It is never safe from crashes that come from time to time (think of saving your sessions often). But it turns clear.
I use it solely on Pro Tools 6.1
Digidesign does offer versions of Reason and other software blackjack.

OVERALL OPINION

Bon bah that's fine. I use it for 2 months.
In Audio is great. I have often heard that the South is very weak. But since I do not use it at all ...
After Cubase, I think it's really something else.
And Pro Tools is a safe bet.
less than 1000 Euros, sold with PT6.1, go ahead it's all good.