How to replace my V1Jp

I purchased the V1Jp the week it came out and have been the proud and frustrated owner for over a year. I built a power desktop for a friend, yet at time of sale he was unable to pay full price. In the end, I settled for selling my V1Jp to him to help me cover my expenses on building the power gaming desktop. Anyways, I am back into the market of a new laptop. Due to my adoration of Asus and their warranty (I've used it twice, both times receiving replacements/service the same week), I have decided to stay with the company and make my new lappy purchase from them. I've been gone for a while from participating on the forum, but I occasionally visit to see the latest news. Anyways, I am seeking advice in what I should purchase next. I am in no big hurry as this desktop left me somewhat broke, but I plan to make a purchase within six months. I would like some advice as to what is on the horizon in the Asus world. I am of course interested in the new V1S, and maybe even more for the W2. But, as I have some time, perhaps waiting is the best option. There is also the C90... Or maybe the new V2S?

Here are some of my requirements:

-A VERY powerful cpu: I use photoshop, slide scanning, HDTV (usb tuner), and gaming. Must be better than the 2.0ghz I had with my V1jp
-4+ gb ram capability: Same as above. Notebook does not need to come with that, just be capable of the upgrade.
-SATA hard drive... Dual hard drives would be nice.
-15.4 to 17 in. screen with crystal shine. 14 in. would be acceptable if has capabilities as above (minus dual harddrive)
-Bluetooth, wireless, ethernet, modem, etc, etc
-A better graphics card than the ATI x1700, preferable dx10 and HD compatible.
-Battery life be more reliable than the V1 (any V1jp owner probably nows what I am referring to! )
-Sturdy and tough like V1, beautiful screen, light (no dual gpu 40lbs. alienware!)

Any insight would help. Thanks!

 

Trying to address each of your points, in no particular order:

Well, for Asus models you're left with the new V1, F3s, G1 or G2 models if you stick with 15-17" screen. Rumors about the new M-series say there may be dual HDDs, I think, but none of the current models support that as a built-in option; all of Asus' lineup has moved to SATA HDDs. None of the current Asus models run 4GB memory well (plenty of posts about that problem around here), max is 3GB for reliable operation; some with Vista x64 have had success, however. Battery life in Asus is the big headache right now, max seems to be ~3 hr, more likely 2-2.5 generally. The F and G series models aren't really the same build quality as the V series. All of the models above have gpu's better than the x1700 and are Dx10.

 

Hmm.... I just looked a little bit around from what you mentioned.... The M series is really interesting!!! Once all the CES pics and specs come in, I may be able to make a good decision. I am not really excited about the G series. Only reason I'd go with a 17" is if it is similar to the W2, which looks spectacular. I've used my V1 for portability, but I think it is a tad to large. I'll probably get an EEE for that now. Anyways, thanks for the advice. I will be eagerly waiting for more news on the M-50 and other CES arrivals.