OT: Help buying a new computer

[Will]

NullAshton said:
Go for a faster computer, too. Better to get the processing speed now, while you can. Most people just get a new computer rather than just a new processor.

Ummm... did you see the processor he picked? Sure, the 3200+ isn't the fastest Athlon64 out there (IIRC, it's the 4000+ right now), but that small step up isn't worth the $300 or so more you're gonna pay for it.

For your memory, be sure to get DDR 400 Dual Channel. Your board supports it, might as well use it.

Also, be sure that the video card is a PCI express card. Your board has no AGP slot, and video cards are usually of the AGP variety.

And, finally, you need to get a non-standard powersupply, with a 24-pin mobo power connector. Most come with a 20-pin and a P4 4 pin.

And I would reconsider the XP Home choice. It'll make things easier on you.

Overall, looks like a nice upgradable system. You have the on-board 8-channel sound, so you won't need a seperate sound card unless you want a really, really nice one. 4x SATA will let you set up a good reliable 0+1 RAID in the future (you'll probably want to go full tower for that though )