Starting New Gaming Build

[Nivekious]

I'm looking into building a new gaming PC, preferably with an Intel processor. While I have no set price limit and am looking to build a top-end gaming rig that will remain useful for a relatively long period of time. Basically, I don't mind spending a lot on this machine, but I want to maximize the usefulness of the money I put into it, rather than buying parts that are only slightly better than others but have a huge price difference.

I have never built a PC from scratch before, but I am experienced with working with hardware and have disassembled and reassembled several machines. I also know several people who have built their own rigs who can help me out if absolutely necessary, so no worries there.

As for extras, I'm looking into using a laptop I have as a terminal, but in case that doesn't work out, I could use recommendations on cost-effective monitors. I have a keyboard and mouse, as well as an OS already.

Thanks in advance for any advice.

[bggsm03]

I've compiled this list of parts for my new build... perhaps this would work for you?

Intel Q6600 proc
Asus P5K-E mobo
Corsair XMS2 2GB ram (i will have 4 gigs for future 64 bit upgrade)
Seagate Barracuda 250 GB hd
corsair 520w psu
evga 8800gt 512
lite-on cd|dvd+rw
raidmax smildon extreme case

comes to about 1250

[Nivekious]

Well that definitely looks great for the price. Do you think upgrades like the intel "extreme" chips, or using dual video cards aren't worth it for the time being then, though? Because I've noticed that those two changes are almost guaranteed to double the price of any build.

[liambl]

Unless you are really serious about gaming you won't want to go SLi or Crossfire. The "Extreme" processors are designed for overclockers and have the multiplier unlocked but if you are a heavy multitasker and/or encoder something like a QX6850 could be worth it. Doing either of these is going to up the price of your build quite a bit.