I've got an AMD dual core that OCs to about 2.5 if memory serves me (quite playing games and have been running it stock for a while). And I've got a 7900gs OCs to 575.
 
I've been getting the gaming itch again.
 
planing on upgrading to a quad core and a new mobo for it (limited to microATX). leaning toward an MSI 8200 and a 9850BE. maybe a q9300 or q6600 and whatever runs it good
 
or a new graphics card. thinking of a 4850. have to see the reviews first.  
 
dont bother telling me that a C2D and an 8800gt would be better, because bother are at thier peak. I'm looking to te future here somewhat. whatever I get will be with me for a while.
 
what do you think?

I'm ordering parts for a new build soon and I got the Q6600 and the MSI 8800GTS 512mb which I think would be somewhat future proof.

Probably the best s775 mATX motherboard available...
Asus P5E-VM HDMI
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Prod [...] 6813131237
$129.99
This board overclocks well, feature loaded, stable, runs fairly cool if you put a fan on that massive heatsink, and can man-handle a quad fairly easily as well.  Don't expect record-breaking overclocks, but you will be able to get it pretty high with little effort.
Intel Q6600
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Prod [...] 6819115017
214.99
With the Q9*** series, the Q6600 and Q6700 have had massive price props.  However, the Q9*** series will overclock higher, but are more expensive, but they also consume less power.
 
If you are not overclocking, I say Asus P5E-VM HDMI, and the Q6600/Q9300/Q9450 depending on your budget, but the bigger you go, the less return on your hard earned cash.

P35-DS3x(ie P35-DS3L) or P5K
 
If on a budget and OCing:
E2180
 
If budget is not a concern:
E8400/7200
Q6600
 
GPU:
8800GT (OP:What res, do you play at?)
(G92)8800GTS

the basic question was a quad core or a graphics card. which one would you buy. I'm only getting 1

GPU.