 | Quote: |  | | |  | Originally Posted by JimsZR2 |  | | | | | | | | |
I've always used AMD processors and never had an Intel before. But if there much better than the current AMD Processors I'll take a look at it. | |  | |  | |
You will see a large benefit over buying AMD - even if you were to purchase a new Phenom
CPU.
I'd get this processor:
Intel Core 2 Duo E8400 LGA775 'Wolfdale' 3.00GHz (1333FSB) - Retail
The E8500 (3.16ghz) isn't worth the price increase for just another 160mhz.
Bear in mind that Intel P35/X38 are where the performance overclockers are at the moment, so if you want SLi you usually have to compromise on overclocking because you will need an Nvidia motherboard - e.g. 680i or 780i. The 780 boards are only just coming on to the market so they are unproven and expensive. If you want dual ATi graphics (CrossFire) you should probably get an Intel X38 board. P35 can technically handle it, but the second slot is only four lanes.
I would suggest just getting a P35 board such as the excellent Asus P5K Premium and a single graphics card such as the GeForce 8800GT. Your monitor resolution is important though - what resolution do you game at? For 1680x1050 and below an 8800GT should do fine with everything apart from Crysis.
You haven't stated any budget for this build or exactly what you need to buy - that would be helpful
