New Mid-Range Build Advice

Hi,

I've been monitoring the forum over the past while, and appreciate all of the expert opinions posted. I'm venturing into my first build. So far I've got the case (Antec Sonota III with 500W Earthwatt PS) and a HD (Hitachi Deckstar 320gb). I'm looking for suggestions as to what CPU/mobo combo I should go with. Being new at this, there is so many ways I can go.

Mainly using the system for internet - video streaming - word processing - music - photo editing (I do lots of editing), but no real gaming. I would like to have a system that will take me well into the future with good ability to upgrade. I've decided to go with on board video and sound because of the lack of gaming. Is this wise? I've also considered AMD CPU's just because of price, but it seams that Intel is going to respond to that soon (i.e. E8400). Looking to spend about $300 on the combo. I have been considering the E8400, but have been reading about the lack of supporting mobo's for this right now (with the BIOS issues). Looking for the best "bang for buck" with what I'll be using it for.

Thanks

No, I don't plan on overclocking. I was reading another post here, and maybe a separate video card might be the better option. I'm trying to learn as much as I can.

I think that is a wise choice. The P35 chipset is the next step up from the other boards. Even if you don't plan on overclocking, they are very stable and they give you the option to do so if you wish,you should give it a try, you don't have to go to extremes, have a little fun and gain a free performance boost. Here's 3 to consider;
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Prod [...] 6813130098

Ati is about to bring out some new <$100 video cards, maybe worth waiting on. Here's a look;
http://www.hothardware.com/Article [...] %5FArrive/

Now you're going to be over budget though, the E8400 is $200 maybe a little more