I haven't purchased anything yet, and i've been researching parts for over 2 days.
You've MORE than given me an immense amount of insight, and I completely dismissed the fact that it is basically essential to boot an OS from an SSD now, on top of the fact that I forgot that you need to run dual channel memory to get maximum efficiency out of your modules!
I've completely redone my list, and I've left a few parts intact, but am still going for a budget of roughly $1200.
Here it is:
CPU: Intel Core i5-6600K 3.5GHz Quad-Core Processor ($233.99 @ SuperBiiz)
CPU Cooler: Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO 82.9 CFM Sleeve Bearing CPU Cooler ($24.89 @ OutletPC)
Motherboard: Asus Z170-A ATX LGA1151 Motherboard ($150.99 @ SuperBiiz)
Memory: G.Skill Ripjaws V Series 16GB (2 x 8GB) DDR4-2400 Memory ($49.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Crucial BX100 120GB 2.5" Solid State Drive ($38.99 @ Amazon)
Storage: Western Digital Caviar Blue 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($47.49 @ OutletPC)
Video Card: Sapphire Radeon R9 390 8GB Nitro Video Card ($317.99 @ SuperBiiz)
Case: Phanteks Enthoo Pro ATX Full Tower Case ($97.98 @ Newegg)
Power Supply: EVGA 750W 80+ Bronze Certified Semi-Modular ATX Power Supply ($48.99 @ NCIX US)
Optical Drive: Asus DRW-24B1ST/BLK/B/AS DVD/CD Writer ($18.89 @ OutletPC)
Operating System: Microsoft Windows 10 Home OEM (64-bit) ($83.89 @ OutletPC)
Total: $1150.05
Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
Generated by PCPartPicker 2016-05-23 05:37 EDT-0400
I have a lot of physical discs that I would like to eventually digitally transfer, but for now it's just a personal preference to use an optical drive
I've also heard about several issues with the z170 boards, from both Asus and MSI buyers. I want to stick with the skylake build, but the reviews are making me a little weary. Perhaps you can give me a little more insight?
The reason I'm picking the case is because of it's superior space and cable management capabilities. I'll pitch in an extra 20 bucks or so for aesthetic and easier setup.
I'm also still contemplating the CPU cooler than you had recommended, but i've heard so many good things about the EVO 212, that i'd rather save the extra $30 on that than I would the smaller case.
I've still got roughly a month or so before my purchase, so i'm still open to many suggestions and opinions