and i'm back.
blackbox is like everest, it gives you your full specs. it also can export those specs as a text file, png, and xml
i.e.
so you don't have to search all over and type shit up.
do you want to keep your current computer? can you upgrade the parts, like the mobo? do you want to build it yourself or can you get someone to build it for you?
if not, i would suggest an intel machine but another amd wouldn't be a problem. if you don't want to, or can't build one yourself, get a barebones from a place like tigerdirect or something similar. a better place would be something local, where i live we have a long strip of computer and pc part stores that all have built and barebone systems which you can customize with the components you want (keep in mind they're not daw builders) and are less expensive with the added bonus of no shipping costs. so try to go local if you can along with newegg and tigerdirect and others, as they always have deals. barebones are good for those that already have stuff they'll keep using like their monitors or graphic cards (depending on the particular barebone system)
note: another advantage of a local shop vs newegg/tigerdirect for pre-built systems is, the local shops will also sell a full desktop pc unbranded, whereas newegg/tigerdirect's full systems tend to be branded hp/acer/compaq/etc which, besides being bloated, may stop you from fully being able to upgrade due to form factor and such, although tigerdirect's gaming category aren't branded
a few examples (just examples not suggestions) of barebone and full
tiger direct:
amd barebone
http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=5667489&Sku=B69-0170
intel i5
http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=5633691&Sku=B69-1164
tigerdirect gaming (with asus mobo and intel e8400 cpu)
http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=4459734&Sku=V133-75600
if you're upgrading, which may be the better choice if possible, look for an amd bundle deal for mobo/cpu at newegg/tigerdirect/local (again the local shop could also do the upgrading if you feel your not up to actually switching out parts. if you can't find a good bundle look for the indivual parts from the same places
another example:
http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=5276648&CatId=4297
but make sure about compatibility with your current equipment you'll be using and pt 8, regardless of what you choose, and that it's somewhat future proof if possible
as far as memory, unfortunately, ddr2 has jumped back up in price late last year due to ddr3 which in turn is more affordable with more deals than ddr2. anyways, personally, 2 gb is the minimum i would have. folks can give their suggestions on manufacturer and cas latency once they know what your doing.
again, those examples aren't suggestions.
excuse the bad grammar
