[andrewas]

HT is simple - the CPU pretends to be two processors so that it can handle multiple threads more efficiently. THeres a couple of percentage points performance to be gained. However, if you run a large single-thread task (Most importantly for most here, games) you lose bit of power as the CPU is now emulating a second CPU that isnt doing anything.

P4s are not my area of expertise - I've been an AMD man since I saw the price comparison years ago - but toms is definately the place to go for information.

Remember not to skimp on the motherboard. I know people that consider it just something to plug the good stuff into, but if you put a Jetway in your box you will have troubles. And remember, no matter how hot your CPU, its mostly the GPU that determines games performace these days, so make sure to get a deent graphics card.