Hi again,
Let me REPLY to the updates and also combat some misinformation:
1. Overclocking:
a) I was recommending overclocking slightly if he invested in a better graphics card as an alternative to buying a new CPU. There WOULD be a benefit.
b) CPU overclocking is something many, many safely do and you can find lots of info on this. I've done it for many years. Again, I'm not suggesting a massive overclock with lots of risk. It's his own informed decision to continue.
People seem to think a small overclock will easily kill a CPU and it's not true if you have a good heatsink, do a little research, and don't push the limits too high. Again, there's LOTS of information on this for this CPU alone.
2) RAM:
*Make sure you use IDENTICAL RAM. Unless you can get another identical 4GB stick, buy a new 8GB (2x4GB) set. You can get a 1600MHz one for as little as $35 on sale.
3) Turn your DUAL CORE into a QUAD CORE? Easily? Maybe...
(This link suggests it is possible so info must be available. I strongly recommend a SMALL overclock only)
http://siliconmadness.blogspot.ca/2009/06/amd-phenom-ii-x2-550-black-edition.html
4) Graphics card:
Now that you're going 8GB and Windows 7 64-bit your memory limit is gone. The best value for you is the HD7850 2GB. And make sure it is a 2GB version. Sapphire is a quality brand and my first choice. Gigabyte and Asus are good too. MSI is in the news for overvolting so that's worth keeping in mind.
5) CPU bottleneck:
Some games with an HD7850 will definitely be bottlenecked by your CPU. For about $100 you can buy a much better CPU. On the other hand your CPU, especially with a small overclock, will play many games nicely with this card. It varies quite a lot between games.
Summary:
- CPU overclock/unlock info
- don't use a STOCK CPU HSF for overclocking
- HD7850 2GB? (not 1GB)
- 8GB DDR3 1600MHz (identical RAM modules!)
Good luck!