AMD Gaming rig build

Ok, it's been several years since I put my own rig together, and I know there are some real PC Gurus here. So, I have spent a few days putting together a list of components for a mid-high range gaming rig that I'd like to build and I'd like some imput from from the tech savvy members here. Without further ado, here is the list:

Motherboard:
MSI K9A2 Platinum AM2+/AM2 AMD 790FX ATX AMD Motherboard - Retail

CPU:
AMD Phenom 9950 BLACK EDITION 2.6GHz Socket AM2+ 140W Quad-Core Processor Model HD995ZFAGHBOX - Retail

Memory:
CORSAIR DOMINATOR 4GB (2 x 2GB) 240-Pin DDR2 SDRAM DDR2 1066 (PC2 8500) Dual Channel Kit Desktop Memory Model TWIN2X4096-8500C5DF - Retail

PSU:
CORSAIR CMPSU-750TX 750W ATX12V / EPS12V Power Supply - Retail

Graphics:
POWERCOLOR AX4870 512MD5-H Radeon HD 4870 512MB 256-bit GDDR5 PCI Express 2.0 x16 HDCP Ready CrossFire Supported Video Card - Retail (Possibly a 4850 slave in Crossfire)

HDD:
Western Digital Caviar SE WD1600AAJS 160GB 7200 RPM SATA 3.0Gb/s Hard Drive - OEM

Case:
COOLER MASTER Centurion 5 CAC-T05-WW Black/Silver Aluminum Bezel, SECC Chassis ATX Mid Tower Computer Case - Retail

Monitor:
Acer AL2216Wbd Black 22" 5ms Widescreen LCD Monitor with HDCP support - Retail


Well, there you have it. My self inflicted budget for this is $1400-1500. With this set-up (including 4850 for crossfire) including shipping, I'm right at that. If anybody sees any incompatible, overpriced, or just plain worthless components, please let me know. I'm crossing my fingers for a pain free build this time. The last one left a bad taste in my mouth and a brick on my desk... hence the long time since building a rig. Thanks in advance.


Also, I'm pretty set on the AMD aspect. I know that most of the Intels benchmark higher and everything, but the speed/price ratio is much better with the AMD. Plus I like to think that buying AMD keeps the big boy, Intel, on it's toes.

injun420, I know your post was from August, but I thought I would post this reply in hopes that you have not made the purchase yet.

Do not buy that motherboard! It has the SB600 South Bridge. You want the new chipset motherboards with the SB750 South Bridge, because you can get a great deal better performance and/or overclock on your Phenom 9950. Look here: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Prod [...] 50&x=0&y=0

I had good luck with a Biostar motherboard for my last build and I haven't heard any bad reports about that company. Maybe you might want to go with a BIOSTAR TFORCE TA790GX3 or one of the other motherboards from them (as long as they have the SB750 South Bridge). Check the specs.

DFI has some really good motherboards too, but they are a little pricey. I was thinking about going with DFI LP DK 790FXB-M2RSH for my next build. My advice is to read the reviews on the Egg and ask around for advice about those boards listed. Regardless, do not buy that MSI K9A2 Platinum AM2+, it has the old South Bridge, so you will not get the best performance from your Phenom 9950 BE Quad CPU.