Build Help

[wpd7]

I dont know if this is the right forum, but I hope so.

Anyhow, I currently have this system:
P4 2GHz
3GB PC3200 DDR ram, 1GB matched corsair value 512s, 2GB matched Crucial 1GBs
40GB and 200GB hard drives
9800Pro AIW

My question is, what is the best bang for the buck and futureproof solution for me if I want to keep my memory?

I am not an overclocker per say, but I am a memory whore. I actually have 4GB of the matched crucial stuff, but my mobo does not see anymore than 3.5GB... A memory whore that doesnt even have super fast memory.

I want PCIe, keep the memory(if possible), AMD or Intel doesnt matter and cheap. Looking at a single card 7900 or 19000 solution, no SLI needed.

Any recommendations?

I just want to preserve my memory investment if possible- if it doesnt hinder performance to the new setup. If it does, please LMK. Usually I'm on top of the hardware, but as you can see, I am about 3 generations from current, if not more.

 

[wpd7]

help anyone?

 

[Standpoint]

Best bang for the buck IMO would be an X2 CPU - dual core is future friendly. Your PC 3200 would work fine w/ it, plus you may be able to take advantae of dual channel w/ your memory. I'd save the cash and get a 7800GT for vid, too.