Well, did the deed, and bought an Acer Aspire 5741 - lots of goodies, and a new i5 Intel processor, so hope OK. Got from Dick Smiths for under $1000, and included Microsoft Office CD.

Set it up yday with no problems, except it hasnt got Outlook Express which has been phased out, and seems Windows Live is the new thing. Dont like it though. Liked having my mail there all the time without having to get on the net and logging in.
Will keep checking it out, as maybe something I am missing.