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Regarding point 3:
Argh. Your abuse of terms is killin me, Smalls!
If what you mean is having one monitor control multiple computers, then say computer.. not cpu. If that's the case(one monitor, two computers), then you need a KVM switch. Easy to get, hit up Newegg and search it.
Regarding point 1:
As for system specs, any modern DAW will work on any crappy prior-generation computer. Getting the best of the best of the best is simply not important, unless you're using a truckload processor hog VSTs or DSP's. Most the time if you've got something taking up crazy system resources, that means that A) somethings wrong with it, B) you're doin somethin wrong, or C) you oughta sample it, or D) save it for later (like reverb). Problem solved!
I built my current audio PC with a Shuttle bare-bones loadout, and a Q6600 quad. It's overkill, money that was better spent elsewhere. That kinda processor power just isn't really necessary most the time, esp. for dance music. You said your current/prior pc is a core duo, whats wrong with your old PC, aside from low ram? Where are you having problems?
This is just a guess, but I'll bet you'll see a performance increase by wiping your HD and re-installing your OS, optimizing it, and avoiding/removing bloatware & malware. Years of tech support taught me that usually it's not the hardware's fault if a system is slow/bogged down. It's the software.
Regarding point 2:
This does not seriously affect volume output. You can get ample sound output you can feel from potentially the very first computer you ever had. If you want volume, then what you want isn't a sound card. You need powered active monitor speakers. This is most important thing in your setup that will affect sound quality and volume.
Regardless, at some point you'll also need a good 'sound card,' so look into Audio Interfaces. IMO, external is the way to go. Stay cheap, you do not need the more expensive ones. Pick up a copy of somethin like Sound On Sound magazine, Future Music, Electronic Musician, Computer Music, etc, and look for audio interface reviews or comparisons. I know one of em has a recurring comparison chart that's useful for things like this, and reference monitors, and midi controllers, etc. Very, very useful overview.
From what you've said, I get the impression that the best way to get an improvement in your audio production setup wouldn't be with a new computer. You'll see the most improvement by buying good powered nearfield monitors, a lower priced audio interface, and a fresh OS install. Perhaps on a new hard drive, if you're using a 5400 rpm.
Maybe you need a new PC, I dunno, but just make sure you get good powered, speakers first. And not the kind you find @ computer stores, but the kind you find at audio stores for at least $300 per pair.
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