Should I upgrade?

I am already using the last revison of 12" Powerbook G4 with maxed out ram, and it isn't quite cutting it any more, I need some more power for aperture and adobe.

Here are my circumstances:

I am a college student

I use my Powerbook as a desktop 90% of the time - External monitor, keyboard, and mouse. I just feel more comfortable working at a desk.

However, I do find the portability useful when I do need it for school projects and taking it to the library and such.

I will most likely be studying abroad next year, so a desktop will not be a possiblity next year.

It will mainly be used for aperture and adobe products with perhaps a little bit of music production in the middle.

I'm thinking that after I sell my PC, Powerbook, and other stuff, I should have about $1900-$2300 as a low estimate based on current going prices, but would love to spend less.

If I get a desktop, expandability won't really be an issue, because I will only have it for 10-12 months, so I am leaning towards buying an iMac (20" or 24") or a mac pro now, selling it and buying Macbook Pro for abroad, then see about what happens when I get back.

What do you guys/gals think I should do? Should I upgrade? Does this sound like a good plan? What would hold its resale value better?

 

I figured when I go abroad, I will most likely buy a 15" MBP, because I don't think I would want to spend 10 months editing photos on a dim 12" screen

I guess I could buy a MPB in a few months and keep it for a while, and forget buying a desktop.

By the way, photography is on of the main things I use my computer for.

I don't ever hide it, its almost always on its iCurve on my desk. I know thats probably asking to get stolen, but its covered by insurance and I have my files backed up.

 

I depends on what program I get accepted to

I get to apply to 2 different countries, so its going to be France or Mexico.

 

Looks like that is what I'm going to do. I'll have to save a few more pennies, cause I'm going to have to get the on with 256MB of video ram, etc. Just debating if I should wait for leopard and another upgrade. I probably will, seeing that I'm not in a huge rush (I want, not need).

I was at my local mac store today, and was impressed by a 1.83Ghz MBP's preformance in aperture, so I know I will love a 2.33C2D.

Thanks