I suggest a laptop
I just got a dell 9100

p4 2.8 w/hyperthreading
15.4 wide screen
80 gig HD
DVD burner
800 FSB
400 Mhz memory 512mb
built in wireless
and a bunch more stuff

and got it for 1400 after nextday shipping
but if you want a desktop pc build it yourself

 

Go to compUSA if theres one around there,
There having a good deal for a Compaqs I got this
2.7GHz intel celeron processor
256 MB(upgraded though to 512 for 50 Bucks more)
40 GB hard drive
CD-RW
17 CRt Moniter
printer
And JBL Speakers
for less then 500 bucks(after rebates)
Real Fast computer