[PlanetCCRMA] Questions on Dual CPU's

[Roy Vestal]

I'm looking into a new system. I'm toying with the idea of dual CPU's. 
Here are my questions:

1. Is anyone using duals as a recording/mixing/mastering platform?
2. If so, is there a big performance increase? Is it a good bang for $$$ ?
3. What kernel version is recommended?
4. Intel or AMD?

I want to get a good system, but I don't want to spend $$$ that I don't 
need or can't use.

I'm planning on using Ardour and Audacity for a lot of my work.

TIA,
Roy