Just about to go out and do a major upgrade.I now have P4 2.8 500Mhz FSB,TI4200 128MB, 512 ddr333 pc2700Two choices are:P4 3.4 800Mhz FSB, ATIx800 256 card, 1 gig ddr2ORAMD 3500+, ATI x800 256mb, 1 gig ddr2I could replace the ATI x800 with a 6800GT 256 card.Also, what would be the advantages of going with a pci express config.This system is primarily for FS2004.Thanks in advance!Adam

>Just about to go out and do a major upgrade.>>I now have P4 2.8 500Mhz FSB,TI4200 128MB, 512 ddr333 pc2700>>Two choices are:>>P4 3.4 800Mhz FSB, ATIx800 256 card, 1 gig ddr2>>OR>>AMD 3500+, ATI x800 256mb, 1 gig ddr2>>I could replace the ATI x800 with a 6800GT 256 card.>>Also, what would be the advantages of going with a pci express>config.>This system is primarily for FS2004.>>Thanks in advance!>>AdamI would go with the amd. I just made the switch from a p4 a few months ago and i love my amd. 64-bits are better in gaming, (for amd would be better for fs) while intel had amd beat at the digital video editing etc etc..Also,i would suggest that you do not replace the x800. The 6800 series out performs hte X800, but its only on lower display settings such as Res, AA, etc etc. Both cards you can run the sliders full right, but if you would like to turn up AA and run the highest res that you can, stick to the X800. It would be my choice and i plan to purchase one this year.PCI-E is AGP vs PCI really. AGP runs a standard 8X pipelines, while the new PCI-E runs 16X pipelines. The PCI-E is indeed faster. Not shure how much though. In 2 years, it is predictied that AGP will no longer be used. ( like PCI now )PCI-e is predicited to take over AGP but not for a few years. The only reason i went with a AGP mobo was because of the price.My advice would be to stick with the AMD system, and go with the X800. Couldnt go wrong at all with that. :)Hope this helps! :-wave

As for PCI E or AGP with todays video cards there is no difference in performance. However the PCI E has greater bandwidth so it will definiatly replace AGP slowly but steadily. So for upgradability it

Excellent advice, Chase and P

Thanks gents for the input. Just got back from the local computer store and placed my order for: Asus A8V-E DX 939 pinAMD 64bit 3500+ATI x800 256Mb1 Gig ddr 400mhzTotal price 1150.00 (CAD) + taxCan't wait...arrives this Wednesday.Adam

you got that for 1150? :-| I WAS RIPPED OFF! my cpu was over 1200 w/out tax.GIGABYTE K8NS-Pro AMD A64 3200+1GB PC320080GB SATA AOpen 8X8 DVD R/ RWATI Radeon 9600XT 128MBI gotta go compare some figures. Let me know the latest.. :)

Pricewatch lists the 64 3200 CPU for around $180. When did you pay $1200? I can't believe it was ever that much, even on the day of its release!Hope this helps,JimActiveSky Sales and Supporthttp://www.hifisim.com/images/as2004proudsupporter.jpg

For my entire tower..I was going to type it all out if i could find the envoice..Ill look for it all.but my tower i believe came up to be around 13 or so.

Well, I'm a little late in offering advice but I think you've made the right choice. I personally believe that AMD64's are the best for gaming and I do own an Intel P4 1.5. The system you

I'm running the new 90nm 3500+ in an A8N-SLI Deluxe with 2 6600 GT's in SLI mode. Getting 70+ FPS in clear weather and 40+ in the clouds.Good choice on the AMD 64!Scott