I have been using computers since the Apple IIGS so I have seen my share of various setups and components. I settled with PC because of their ease of customization, affordable prices and user-friendliness. This system evolved over a number of years and has seen many upgrades. The monitor on the left is a separate computer that use for email and music. It is a simple system that I bought at a thrift store for $60. Since its only function is to run Outlook, Winamp and Rhapsody, it does not need to be high tech.
The 2 monitors in the middle are a dual monitor setup for my main computer – a quadcore with 6GB RAM. The monitors are 24” Dell UltraSharp. The graphics card is top-of-the-line which I needed in order to rotate both monitors 90 degrees. I prefer the vertical orientation of the monitors on this computer because most of the artwork I create is vertical. Call me stubborn but I still use Windows XP and Photoshop CS2. I prefer very plain and simple components that do the work I need them to do without the extra bells and whistles that I will never use. The operating system is even running in ‘classic mode’ with a plain gray wallpaper.
The monitor on the right is obviously a TV. Sometimes I get sick of listening to music while working so turn the TV on instead, although, I try not to do that too often because it is distracting. The desk was custom built. I designed it to fit perfectly in my office using 3D Studio Max. It was built by a local craftsman.
Lastly, you will see that I do not use a tablet. I do have one but I have not found a use for it outside of making long strokes (like painting hair). I really do not know how people can stand using them all the time.
If drawing on paper was your past time when you were in school then you would understand that a tablet is a weapon of a digital artist... but if you don't then let it be... you're used to using a mouse anyway... )