15" or 17" MBP?

Questions are why we are here (both to ask them and try to answer them). If value for money is the primary issue, then I definitely think the 17" is worth it. You also get the x1600 video card that, as I understand it, is not underclocked in the 17" like it is in the 15" (although it can be o'clocked in the 15"). This probably won't matter at all unless you do gaming or intensive 3D apps.

I have 2 Dual Layer burners - and have yet to do any dual layer burning...so that's a matter of how much you think you will use it. FW 800 is nice - if you are going to be doing lots of file transfers or or other work with an external HD, otherwise, FW 400 and USB are fine.

People who need the 17" display swear by it. I would prefer to use a 15" on the go, and have a nice external display to hook it up to at home when I want a larger display.

Another subjective thought in favor of the 17" is that some have reported it runs a bit cooler, given it may have better heat dissipation with the larger size. I don't really know if this is a fact.

My suggestion is you compare both the 15" and 17" at a store if you can. Because it really will come down to how comfortable you are with the larger size - because it is so thin, it really isn't a monster and is a very good solution for many.

Haven't been much help, have I? That's because it really does come down to personal preference, and whether or not you think you'll need the extra features on the 17" (either now or later). Given you want it for Video/Audio editing, I could see where the features on the 17" would work well for you - and you'll probably enjoy the extra screen real estate. And given mobility is not a major issue, that may be another reason to go 17".

Re delivering enough performance with the current CPU - I can't imagine you'll have any problems doing what you want to do, and may find you don't have the need/urge to upgrade when the next ones come out...in fact, you may find you're better waiting for Rev 3 or 4. Good Luck with your decision.

I could've sworn I posted a reply to this...

however a SATA expresscard will be even faster than fw800 if u really need the highest through put. if u wanted that, then u could go w/ the smaller 15" and have as powerful features.

Ha! I did reply to this thread...when it was in the Audio forum!

i saw the 15/17" MBP in the store yesterday. i would never buy a 17 for portable use, it was HUGE. the 15" was even pushing it i think. thats ok, MB here i come!

I love my 17...it can be a little awkward to carry around but I don't do a lot of that. 90 percent of my use is when I'm on my bed anyway, heh.

I'd love to get an iBook for portability but I want a computer that can do games and everything too. I could get a desktop and an iBook but I'm afraid one or the other would sit collecting dust. So it's the PowerBook for me. I might go for the 15 inch next time as the resolution is higher now but I don't know.

the 17 macbookpro is an awesome machine. My first mac and i love this darn thing. The machine is a work of art. I would buy it again in a heart beat.