Since the OPs first use is "3D Animation and Rendering", even 8GB is too little. 16GB is the minimum recommended. Plus, RAM doesn't cost much. Also, upgrading to i7 2600 and HT makes a big difference to Rendering. Save on the GPU - GTX 580 is poor value for money. You will see no benefit on 1280x1024. Get a 6970 or 570, in fact even HD 6850 is overkill for 1280x1024. Use the money saved to upgrade to i7 2600. It's going to make a big difference to your render times while not compromising on your gaming.