System manufacturer Gateway has just unleashed the spring shopping spree with its refreshed desktop PC lineup. Not only that the new systems come with Intel's quad-core processors, but they are also powered by a 64-bit version of the Windows Vista operating system.

Gateway's FX7026 desktop PC is powered by an Intel Core 2 Quad Q9300 processor, while the graphics subsystem is comprised of an overclocked Nvidia 8800 GT graphics core. Other specifications include 4 GB of memory and 640 GB of hard disk space. According to the manufacturer, the system is available immediately at an estimative price of $1099.99, which makes it one of Gateway's most expensive high-end offerings.

The new FX desktops, however, come with a more affordable price tag and primarily target multimedia fans and budget gamers. For instance, the FX541 features an SLI-ready motherboard, dual PCIe x16 slots, as well as a factory overclocked NVIDIA 8800 GT video card.

The GT series of desktop PCs is targeted at movie enthusiasts and the available models come in a plethora of hardware configurations tailored to fit any budget. This is also the company's mainstream lineup, powered by AMD's tri-core processors. The GT5670 sports a triple-core AMD Phenom 8400 CPU, 320GB hard drive, 3GB of memory, a choice of integrated graphics including Nvidia GeForce 6150SE or ATI Radeon HD 3200 and a 32-bit version of Windows Vista Premium. The system retails for about $549.99.

"Our new line up includes something for everyone", said Steve Bulling, senior manager of desktops. "Regardless of cost or how they are going to be used, each one of these systems offers great technology that will enhance the computing experience. From the over-clocked graphics found in our value based FX7026 gaming PC to the availability of a powerful DX system with Windows XP, our customers have the ability to make choices that best fit their needs", he continued.

The slightly more powerful GT5674 comes with a quad-core AMD Phenom 9500 CPU, a 500 GB hard drive, 3 GB of memory, integrated graphics, as well as Windows Vista Premium. The whole rig, except for the monitor, sells for $649.99.

The GT5676 ($749.99), GT5678 ($849.99), and GT5685E ($899.99) models come with a 64-bit version of the Vista operating system, in order to take full advantage of the 4 GB of memory available. While the GT5676 comes with an AMD quad-core chip, the GT5678 counterpart is powered by an Intel quad-core processor. The GT5685E is closer to the mainstream line in terms of pricing, so the only available CPU model is an Intel Core 2 Duo chip.

AMD is constantly pushing its tri-core products on the mainstream market and Gateway is only one of the many adopters who have already released X3-based systems.