Thanks for the assistance and the input folks.

Sadly, some things have been going on (indeed, since I posted this thread - sadly some things can happen very quickly) that make it a bit unfeasible to attempt to learn a completely new OS. The financial aspects of going with a Mac don't help the cause either.

I've priced out what it would cost to upgrade my old computer to a nice Core i7 system, and it comes out to about $800.

I recognize that a good amount of the "Apple Tax" goes towards excellent quality, but I just can't afford it right now, when I'm trying to get the best value I can.

I'm currently seeing how good a workflow I can put together using Sony Vegas, and so far I've been quite pleased. It imports the unusual MJPEG video files from my Canon TX1 without a hitch, and the UI is pretty good. If I get confident that I can live with this software, I might go ahead with the upgrade. I've got a fantastic case (Lian-Li PC-75) that's been sitting unused for too long