18 hours ago, zmak said:

 

https://arstechnica.com/civis/viewtopic.php?t=1202301

 

https://www.google.com/search?q=does+the+latest+mobo+need+w10&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&client=firefox-b

Hmm...I suppose the best thing to do is just break down and get Win 10 (begrudgingly) and do a clean install with the new hardware. Then hope FSX and maybe even FS2004 will work without too much stress and aggravation.

11 hours ago, SirTommy said:

Hmm...I suppose the best thing to do is just break down and get Win 10 (begrudgingly) and do a clean install with the new hardware. Then hope FSX and maybe even FS2004 will work without too much stress and aggravation.

I wouldn't worry, Windows 10 has been fine for me, been using it for a couple of years now

Okay, parts are on order. When I get it all put together I'll give an update.

Thanks everyone for all the feedback.

After a few tense moments not knowing why the new rig wouldn't boot up (it was just a monitor connection issue), it's up and running with all my add-ons installed and working. And I have to say, wow, it's a big difference!

I can actually take off and land in New York smoothly with add-on planes 😄.

So, I just want to say thank you all for the encouragement and tips. The upgrade was way overdue and seems to be a grand success. 

Good stuff, glad it's worked out for you