What are your software needs that an i7 860 isn't cutting it anymore? I could imagine if you were working in graphics (animation, modelling, rendering) or if gaming was your preference but then the video card may have a bigger impact than anything else you were upgrading.
Something about timing if it's getting you down. 2 rules we follow in the animation field:
1- Simplify. Try and move less pieces and instead focus in finessing them. Instead of blinking 10 individual pieces on and off. Move 2 groups of 5 and focus on fading them nicely.
2- Hit all your notes...