Ktulu

My old laptop is dying and I need to get working on a new computer. I know I can build a system for close to $300, but I want something with plenty room for upgrades.

I want to have the option of 2 way SLI/Xfire. What is a good PSU that will handle 2 cards but is cheaper than $75?

Is there a cheaper motherboard out there that can handle Crossfire and AM2/AM3 CPU's?

As far as the monitor, I want something for gaming that is 19" or bigger. I am trying to balance size, response time and quality. Would there be any thing cheaper than $170 that will look good playing games or watching movies? Is there much of a difference between 5ms and 2ms response time?

I don't really see this build happening unless I can get it closer to $650. I also don't want to be left in the dust, I want this board to be able to be upgraded and be able to play games into the next few years. It doesn't have to play EVERY now game, but I want to at least be able to play the new Mafia 2 game for example or play Team Frotess 2 and some MMO's for now until I can get some more money.

Help would be very appreciated I'll rep you if you can save me some money, thanks.

wraeththu

My mobo is pretty good for how cheap it is(80$ Asrock a780gxe). Also you can save money by going with a different brand ram. I bought some 2x 2gb ocz gold ddr2 8500's not to long ago for $25. They were regularly 40 but i got 15$ rebate. They also overclocked fairly well. That PSU is a very good one. Shop around a lot, because i know you can find better deals for some of the stuff. Check out microcenter, although very rare, they can have better deals than newegg.

GL

Edit: i doubt you'll be able to build a setup including monitor that is a few years future-proof with $650. I.E.- While the kuma is a great budget gaming proc, it wont be so in the not distant future. Try to piecemeal the build. Get a 790gx mobo and use the onboard video until you have more money and then buy a video card/s.

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-Griffin