I could use some advice on a new build

[evaninspain]

I really want to build a new computer. I don’t have a compelling reason to do so, it’s just something that I want to do. I presume some of you on this forum can relate.

I am currently using a P4 2.4Ghz with 1.5GB RAM and a nice (though older) Motherboard and video card. I never play games on my computer (maybe I should). I really only use if to surf the web (50%), MS Office applications (20%), Photoshop (15%), CD/DVD copying (10%), Other (5%).

I would like to build a quiet PC, the fans in my current one make a bit too much noise. I would also like to try my first attempt at overclocking – just to get a bit more bang for my buck (I also think it will be fun)

Here is what I have so far:

-CASE
-DVD SAMSUNG SH-S203N SATA
-4 sticks of 1GB PC2-5300 DDR2-667 HP DIMM (ordered yesterday)

Questions:
1) Should I get a E8400 next week, or wait a month or two for the Q9450 (remember, I don't use games)?
2) I was considering purchasing the quiet Arctic Freezer Pro 7. Will it work with these new chips?
3) Can someone suggest a silent DX10 video card for me (without a fan)? I presume I don’t need to spend a lot of money here since I don’t use games.
4) I was considering a Gigabyte GA-P35-DS3L/R (I still use and love my vintage HP 4P printer with a parallel printer cable) but I’m not sure this MB will work with the new CPU’s without a bios update, and I’m not sure how I would get a bios update unless I can get my computer working (catch 22). Does anyone have any other MB suggestions?
5) I am also debating between XP and Vista. And between 32 and 64 bit. Any suggestions?

Any other advice would be appreciated.

Thanks!

 

[akhilles]

Actually, quads benefit general tasks cuz most games won't make use of multiple cores. Especially if you multitask a lot: you can burn a cd/dvd, browse the Web, watch idiot tube (youtube) & unzip a very large file all at the same time with no slowdown.

1) Hell, yes! I would & o/c this mofo to 4+ ghz.
2) Any socket 775 cpu cooler will work with all future socket 775 cpus.
3) Geforce 8500/8600 with a large heatsink.
4) DS3L/R have a printer port. Works out of the box. You need a driver for your OS.
5) It's a matter of personal preference. Me? 32-bit until Vista SP1 or 2. BTW, there's a hack called VAIO which runs Vista apps. It works on my family PC. I set it up to look identical to Vista, only it's 32-bit XP. Sidebar works perfect. I can't guarantee it'll work for everyone. My desktop looks identical to Leopard (latest OSX). I can run all the s*** old & new out there.