650 USD Gaming Build

[AcidBlob]

So far I've got:

Sapphire HD 6950 from Amazon (200 after rebates).
2x4GB DDR3 1600 RAM from Newegg (57)
600W OCZ ModXStream PSU from Newegg (50 after rebates)
Something cheap/good (like Antec 300) (50-70)

What I need help with is the CPU and the Motherboard:

CPU considering: i5-2500K, i5-2400, i5-3450, i5-3550 (160-200, from MicroCenter)
motherboard: ??? (70-90 or close)

Trying to keep the price at about 650, and prioritize around gaming and nothing else. No plans for overclocking. Unlikely to add a second video card.

Any suggestions on the parts choose? And what to pick for CPU and MB?

Thanks in advance.

 

[obsama1]

Microcenter gives $50 off the motherboard when you get an i5-3570K. So, get the i5-3570K and Asrock Pro 3 for for $44.99 after the $50 is taken off. Then, you pay $235 for mobo+CPU.

 

[AcidBlob]

That's worth considering, how does the i5-3570K hold up against the i5-2500K?

Also, is it worth changing the GPU to an HD 7850?

 

[azeem40]

i5-3570k is similar at a lower OC.

 

[bigcyco1]

well a 7850 can be overclocked close to a 580 so i would say yes it worth upgrading to a 7850

 

[azeem40]

Yep, when Oced, the 7850 is a bit better than the 570 and close to the 580, while using A LOT less power.