dual chip processors worht it?

[ssmallz]

So I was reading on CNET about how dual core processors can help when running multiple apps and really speed up the computer speed. Like the rest of you, I play 4 tables, mine 6 more, PT and PA-HUD are running and sometimes I try to make a video.

Right now I'm running this off of a laptop w/a 2001fp hooked up. My next step is to buy a tower and eventually get another 2001fp. The computer would pretty much be used exclusively for poker, w/occasional web surfing, and of course, iTunes so I have something to listen to when I play.

The chip I was looking at, after reading some of the other threads on this forum, was the AMD athlon 64 x2 4200. Is it worth it to spend this kind of $$ on a chip or should I just go bargain basement and get a 2 gigahertz celeron? What type of motherboard matches the athlon chip and will optimize its performance? I'm planning on going w/1 gig of ram, is there anything to take into consideration when buying ram or is it all pretty much the same. I prolly only need an 80 gig hard drive, recommendations appreciated. I doubt I need much in the way of video or sound cards and I'm sure I can find a cheap pair of speakers.

All recommendations are helpful and keep in mind that price is somewhat of a factor. I dont plan on skimping on anything but I don't want to spend excess $$ of stuff I won't utilize to the fullest. I'd like to save $$ where I can if possible.