Ubuntu Studio for a Second Base Unit?

Is it worth getting a second base unit and Installing Ubuntu studio on it? I am planning on getting into a lot more Graphical Development and i do have some Audio-styled development going on at the momentand I will also be learning some programming Languages through my Apprentiship (Visual Basic and C# to start off with). As far as I am aware. I'm using Visual Studio 2010 ultimate at the moment just to test out said codes on my Home version of XP SP3 (College provided me with the .ISO and the key for it) but I don't think it's Compatible with Ubuntu.

I don't want to make a complete switch over from Windows to Linux on my Main PC. I would like to get myself a second Pc to sit on my Home desks for said reasons above. My maximum budget is £1000 if It's a good idea.