@ NoTG - just MAKE SURE you download the AMD Dual Core fixes from Microsoft.
Also, memorize this tip for SH4 on any multiple core processors: start the game, CTRL+ALT+DEL, in the Task Manager right click on the game executable (sh4.exe) and set AFFINITY to ONE core only. You need to do this manually every time you start the game.
This is also needed for other games not scripted to take advantage of multiple cores (from memory: Beyond Good & Evil, Ground Control II).
Happy hunting with your new rig