For gaming I stick to these lists:
http://www.notebookcheck.net/Notebookcheck-s-Top-10-Gaming-Notebooks.98628.0.html
http://www.cnet.com/topics/laptops/best-laptops/gaming-laptops/
All the models on those lists come with plenty of RAM.
About AUDIO, the next link is a fun read. In short, get the head phones in that article.
http://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/high-end-pc-audio,3733.html
Bob
I currently have a Dell Inspiron 1750 but after nearly five years the second battery is on its last legs so I'm looking to update/upgrade.
I'll be using it mostly for watching movies and Netflix as well as using the internet. I'm also a bit of a gamer, maybe a few hours a week. I want something that is fast and reliable with a good screen.
So, what I want to know is what would you recommend for my needs? What brands should I look at? How much RAM will I need? What screen and audio specs should I look out for?
Any advice and recommendations are greatly appreciated, thanks.

Chowhound
Comic Vine
GameFAQs
GameSpot
Giant Bomb
TechRepublic