Custom builds, Alienware etc. with 12GB RAM are not using the RAM for gaming. They are using the RAM for running multiple virtual servers. Or (to quote what I was reading) "doing bracketed HDR exposures in CS4". Or, in your case, rendering. All places I've checked out just now are saying that 12GB is a waste of money if you're doing it for gaming and should stick to 4-6GB. If it's for gaming related purposes, it's basically nothing more than bragging rights which, to most people, will just end up with you looking silly if you don't have a good reason for the additional RAM.
When I say Average Joe, I mean the people who are actually able to afford a PC in the first place, and the ones that intend on using it for gaming - not rendering!
As for "High end" I don't mean "THE BEST!!!", I mean "what you need to run every game out there at the highest settings without any problems whatsoever." I would say what you're referring to is what I used to refer to as a "Specialist Computer" or (as they're referred to at my work) a "CAD PC". Borderline Supercomputer.
![cl_out](/images/eoff_smilies/tongue.gif)
Admittedly, I'd
love to try gaming on one, mind you.
![Big Grin](/images/eoff_smilies/biggrin.gif)
Haha. You're lucky that your work requires you have that sort of rig, you'll never have a problem with games - ever.
Not up to date with technology? Dude, it's literally in my job description to be up to date with technology.
![Smilie](/images/eoff_smilies/smile.gif)
I just also stay up to date with what is realistic for the needs and wallets of 99% of the gamer population... it's possible that, being a renderer, you aren't aware of what most people look for in a desktop. Which is understandable.
Anyway, enough rambling.
![Big Grin](/images/eoff_smilies/biggrin.gif)
The point is that normal gamers looking for what is referred to as "mid to high range" (in your words) shouldn't be looking for 16-24GB RAM. That's far beyond their requirements, and will remain that way at the start of 2011, easily. There is no need for them to rush out and spend £5,000+ on a gaming rig. Most people will be looking at closer to £600-1000 if they're serious about their gaming. In the UK, anyway, not sure on the costs of things over the pond.
How much RAM does a PS3 have, btw? I just read it's something like 256MB. Is that true? If so, that's crazy what they can do with such a small amount. Stunned.