Only reservation about lower priced Dells is the shared RAM. If you can afford it, go for at least 512 MB RAM. You will then be able to spare some for sharing with the video. Also, if the system does not come with an A: drive, Dell will put one in for ~$20. Look for a special where they will throw in a DVD burner or will swap the CDRW out and place a DVD burner in for no or little cost. They will sometimes bargain.
I have had Dell desktops and laptops for years and have had no significant problems.