Can you help me choose a new Thinkpad

[lutami]

Looking for a new Thinkpad, it'll most probably be the last one i buy because cash will be a little tight from the end of this year. Get it while i can!

So much choice now i'm getting myself confused (heads spinning with specs) i'm looking and deciding then see something better and change my mind, i just don't know what to buy so any suggestions for a good all round machine.

I download and burn a lot of movies so need one with a good burner and plenty of memory.

I'm in the UK and Thinkpads are a lot more expensive here, so around £800 = $1500 or less if possible!

I'd be grateful for any suggestions

[gator]

If you want a newer thinkpad than your R51, I suggest looking at something like this:
http://forum.thinkpads.com/viewtopic.php?t=63357

[basketb]

If money is a concern for you now or later down the road, why don't you upgrade your R51? You could max out the RAM and buy an (external or ultrabay) DVD burner.

[lutami]

Cheers, already have 2GB memory 160 HD and an external burner, burner would be much easier integrated, no wires!

Screen now has 5 vertical lines since March so need new screen, AGAIN! already had one last year, was a used one hasn't lasted!

Wouldn't be able to fit myself, much too fiddly for me, and it will cost around £300 = $500 with fitting.

Would like a faster Processor as well so i think a new machine would be cheaper all round.

I'm still looking, still so undecided *sigh* wish i'd bought the Z61 last year, can't find any now!