Hardware novice looking for first ground up.

Approximate Purchase Date: Today, Monday


Budget Range: 500+- 100


System Usage from Most to Least Important: Now, light application programming via visual studio.net, eclipse, gradually growing to more robust programming incl. all of CS5 video editing, 3D animation, and sound/music editing including pro tools.


Parts Not Required: computer only, I can make the output and input upgrades as I go, but would like to account for future midi input, multiple monitor HD 1080p output, and advanced sound card future upgrade.


Preferred Website(s) for Parts:newegg, microcenter, amazon, any U.S. source web or local incl. CL, e-bay, used etc...

Country of Origin: Los Estados Unidos.


Parts Preferences: I think I would like to start with AMD X4
PHENOM II X4 840 Boxed Processor HDX840WFGMBOX , price is right, and seems like the socket type is more standard for future upgrades than anything else.


Overclocking: For what? I am not sure I have a great grasp on the implications of overclocking.


SLI or Crossfire: Yes, would eventually need multiple HD GPU's


Monitor Resolution: eventually 1920x1200, may not start there, but will end up there within 2 years.


Additional Comments: quiet would be nice, starting out basic is key while keeping the ability to upgrade to professional production level. Will need support for future 16+g RAM while only needing 4 for now.

I am not a proven, tried hardware guy (yet) but am very hands on, not afraid to learn, jack something up, re-do it until it's right, start over from scratch, or basically all of the things I am going to have to do to learn how to build my monster media producing PC. I have never done much more than memory upgrades and basic hardware upgrades, but I'm not afraid to bite off a big chunk of something I want to learn. Thanks to everyone who cares to kick me some advice.

Dave
grassguydave@gmail.com