CPU and graphics for Lightroom PC?

[ajf]

I know I've had a few posts about debating new spec but getting a bit lost now.

Three options as I see it:

Core i7 hex core with HT - socket 2011
Core i7 quad core with HT - Ivybridge
Core i5 Quad core No HT - Ivybridge

Ignoring costs for a moment is there any significant performance advantage for either of the i7 CPUs, or should I go for a decent i5 and spec more memory and SSDs?

In terms of graphics, I assume Lightroom and Photoshop too do not really use graphics heavily do they?

 

[ajf]

Thanks for the replies. That has helped me push away from the i7s and save a bit!
Good point about the VMs though as a seperate point. I might use it for this so probably go with 16Gb or even 32Gb if not too much extra.

Lightroom is just a hobby so generally 20Mb RAW files and occassional bulk export for web use but I just leave it to get on with it at that point.