Hi
I would like to know if i should get xp sp3 or xp 64 bit
I need it mostly to work with photoshop and 3d apps then also playing some games old and new

I have core 2 duo e6600 also 4 GB of RAM at disposal

32-bit works with anything and has all the drivers. Heck, if you're buying, get Vista 32. Works with every XP32 program I throw at it.

my main aim is performance, ive heard that vista rather slows down performance
would vista 64 be faster than xp sp3 if i used 4 GB of RAM?

http://www.extremetech.com/article [...] 476,00.asp

check this article out hope it helps (not too sure about Vista though in terms of photoshop performance but i know that vista sp1 has worked out the majority of its kinks as far as gaming goes)

I'm in the same situation. Just posted a thread about it in the vista section. I've worked with XP x64 and found it extremely stable, although I can't comment on performance as I didn't run any benches. I'm also experimenting with Vista Business x64. I borrowed an install disc for the 30 day "trial". Stability and compatibility seem to be on par with XP x64, although vista seems more responsive due to super-fetch.

The downside with Vista, in my opinion, is it feels cumbersome and cluttered. They tried to pack so much into the interface that it can be a litte overwhelming if your used to the simplicity of XP. I've only had it for a few days though, so it may just be that I'm not used to it yet.

I'm using Vista x64 and I'm not too happy with it. I love the way it looks and it seems very fast compared to my XP MCE 2005. The only drawback is compatibility issues with drivers. I can't get my surround sound 5.1 working with vista using a creative X-Fi fatality card. I think if Vista had support for drivers, it would definitely be the system to use. I wouldnt go with 32 bit vista, 64 is much faster. If you want XP 64 bit then your pretty much getting a vista 64 with incompatible drivers. Save yourself the head and stick with XP 32.

As pointed out in the other thread - Your issue is with your sound card and the morons at Creative who are incapable of writing functional drivers. I have an Auzentech Prelude 7.1, which uses an X-fi chip, and it works perfectly.