should i get ati? if so which one?

Why so sour against Nvidia? I know its an ATI forum but still. The 8600Gt is not a gaming card, it is for general use. The card you linked is a nice card. I am a fan of Sapphire, it's probably the only ATI card maker I think I would buy from. I had an x1900xtx before my 8800GTS512 and I loved it. Never had an issue and i OCed the crap outta it. That card also has the 2slot cooler which I am a fan of. The new ones do not have that. Your PSU might be an issue, but its sorta on that boarder. You might be ok. Just uninstall the current drivers, power down, remove old card, install new card, power on, install new drivers.

Anyways. Since you are in canada I am not sure what places you can order from and what deals you can get. As well as the exchange rate to USD. So Im not sure if that a good deal or not. BUT it's a great card.

There is a huge difference from an 8600GT to a 3870. The 3870 IS a gaming card. the 8600gt is not. It does not even have it's own PCI power connector. I can see the thing pulling to much juice over the bus or overheating with that tiny cooler. I think you may have been using it for the wrong application.

Well, your choice is a simple one. Sapphire 3870. They make 2 single slot cooler models (i think). The card I saw on Newegg will run great but most seem to think the fan is loud - $179 us. There is also a Sapphire 3870 with improved cooling for just over $200 U.S.

I've had several cards from ATI/Sapphire and all have been flawless in construction and over clocked as well as ATI's chips would let them. I did have a Visiontek once, and I don't think I'd do it again.

I know you want ATI, but what about the Nvidia 9600?

i just bought the 3870 but i didn't buy a powersupply
i hope 500w psu will be enoguh because i have no clue how to install another lol

anyway, wish me luck! if i got any troubles ill come back