Updated, please critique, Need advice for build

[pugnax]

I need to replace my previous desktop: Dell p4 1.8 w/ Radeon 9200 PCI(not express), basically a fairly cheap computer from its purchase in 2001.

I am looking to build a computer that will last and perform for the next few years, and will have the potential to be upgraded w/ either new CPU technology, etc. The main use for this computer will be internet research, word processing, maybe some photo/video editing, and some pc gaming (basically some good dx9 games like IL2 and the upcoming release of Stalker), so I would like this system to run these games on high/max settings.

Right now, I am not interested in building a dx10 system, and will probably use xp for another year or so.

Also, I would like to build this in a micro atx mid/mini case.

So, this is what I think that I will need, trying to stay under $1000.

1. Case: Decided to go w/ this $71 shipped http://www.zipzoomfly.com/jsp/ProductDetail.jsp?ProductCode=382315

2. CPU: from reading this forum I know that the Core 2 Duo is "better" than the AMD Athlon X2 cpus, but I see that the price of AMD is lower, and thus might fit my budget better. So,

I like this combo AMD x2 3600 + ASUS M2NPV-VM Micro ATX motherboard for the combo price of $169

http://www.newegg.com/product/Product.asp?item=N82E16813131014

3. Motherboard: see combo deal w/ cpu f

4. Graphics card: this should work well enough

EVGA Geforce 7900gs for $140 after rebate

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?item=N82E16814130056

5. Memory, I am going with this memory because it was recommend from the ASUS memory compatibility chart for the motherboard, or should I try to go with DDR2 800. ??????

Corsair XMS2 (2x1gb) 240 pin DDR2 675 (PC2 5400) at $162

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?item=N82E16820145015

6. Harddrive,

Western Digital Caviar 160gb 7200 rpm SATA for $63, might add another later

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?item=N82E16822136062

7. DVD drive

Lite-on SATA for $42

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?item=N82E16827106057

8. Power supply,

I found an Antec EA-500w Earthwatts for $40, so it is mine now

9. Monitor:

I guess I will go with this Samsung unless anyone can suggest something else. Samsung 941BW 19 4ms $180 after rebates

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?item=N82E16824001088

Please, let me know if you see any flaws/bad choices since this is my first build. Also, it there are any ways to cut costs with a similar product, I would appreciate the help.

Thanks again.

 

[alcattle]

To hold down costs, the combo for $150 is a sweet deal. Room to upgrade with the AM2 socket and nothing you don't need like onboard graphics.
I believe there is a x1950 on sale now for $150, not a bad choice, I looked at it for my DVR system I am building. Here is the link
Sapphire X1950GT.
Better deal than I remembered, there is a $25 MIR

 

[pugnax]

Thanks alcattle, I found another combo cpu and board for $192 http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16819103774,

Do you think it would better to go with the faster Cpu 2.1 or stick w/ the 1.9.

Also, I am somewhat nervous about not going w/ the core 2 duo, but w/ AMD x2 in my budget being around $100 cheaper, I think that this saved $100 would give me more room for a better graphics card, thus the best choice for my needs. Am I right or is my logic flawed??? :?:

 

[maguszxz]

The CPU that I was looking at was the Core 2 Duo 2.13 Ghz. Got great reviews.

 

[pugnax]

Well, I think that my build is almost ready to be ordered, I would appreciate any advice on it.