What is the best computer for around $1,000?

[assassin]

I set aside $1,000 last year, then held off becuase of Vista.

I will use it some for work (MS word, Excel, very little powerpoint), and some poker
Wife just uses it for email
11 year-old for school projects (internet), I-Tunes, and Video Sites (You-tube etc)
9 Year old for some online games

Need monitor also (17 inch or 19 inch)
May need another printer as well (if bundled).

thanks

I can go over the $1,000 if need.
What should i be looking for in terms of brand, memory, graphic cards, etc.

This will be the main home computer

Do not have high speed now (except when I catch a free signal)

 

[Dubpoet]

You dont need much. 700$ should do it.

Any computer can do this now.

 

[noPunter]

I have always used Dells without any trouble.
No matter what kind you get, be sure to get at least 1GB RAM ( 2 gb preferred), a hard drive with plenty of space (250+ GB), a video card with on-board RAM. If you go to the Dell website, search Dimension E520. It is in the $1000 range for the top end machine. I would skip Vista for now and go with XP Professional or Media Center edition