amd dual core has a minimum of $300.
Dual core amds are better than intels at everything. and they cost less.
no it would not operate slow, hence the fact its better than intel.
and if u are on a tight budget, read on the guides on overclocking, and when you have questions because you are going to feel intimidated and uncomfortable i can answer ur questions about the basics, just PM me. then u can overclock the 3000+ to like 2.4GHz. which makes it even better.
EDIT: yes u will be overclocking, when im done with you lol. dont be so scared of it. its very simple, just the language seems intimidating. and if u do overclock, you wont have to buy a new processor by 2007.