Computer monitor for new Mac

[musicphotog33]

I was having a hard time picking a forum for this post but since computer work and photography go hand in hand these days and most of us are using digital cameras in conjunction with our computers I figured this was as good a place as any to ask this advice...

I have used a Mac at work in the past but have pretty much been a PC guy at home. I'm not impressed with Vista and I'm finding out that many older programs will not work with Vista since Microsoft is graduating to 64-bit.

With a Mac, my understanding is that I can get the parallel software that allows it to run PC programs when I need to and the Mac is able to run both 32 and 64 bit programs.

After pricing a new Dell with all the specs that I would want I then priced a Mac and came up with a similar price range ($2500). Here's the problem.... Dell comes with a decent flat panel monitor at no extra cost and if I want to upgrade its still a reasonable extra charge but the Mac does not include a monitor in the $2500 package. Apple monitors start at $700 and that simply isn't in the budget. At the same time I don't want to invest $2500 in a new Mac and not have a good screen.

So, I'm asking any and all Mac users in here if they can suggest a good third party flat panel monitor that can be used with a new Mac Pro computer which delivers good color and accuracy for use in photography at a reasonable price? Thanks in advance for any suggestions.

Jim

[jliechty]

In your price range, you should consider a Dell LCD for your Mac Pro. A 20" widescreen* costs US$360; the 24" is about $675, so while it's a much more spacious option, it's probably not within the reach of your budget.

* Dell 20" widescreen LCD

[Sven]

I would suggest looking for deals on monitors at dealmac.com. The selection and bargains is not real good today, but keep looking as I've seen some great deals on screens. New stuff will appear tomorrow. Although I'm a huge Mac fan, don't be afraid to go with another screen. Techbargains.com is also a good place to look. However, Dealmac has their stuff organized in categories. I hope that helps.

Sven

[Augphoto]

For about $2000 the iMac comes with a generous 24 inch monitor. This is the purchase I am currently considering. Am I missing something here? I hate to make a mistake on this one. I am going to order one as soon as their new OS comes out.