In the chance that we have some computer savy people on this forum....
I think it is soon time to update my desktop and so I am looking for opinions on this machine. I am looking to build a fairly efficient machine, however still staying within reason. I am not interested in spending 3x the amount for the absolute newest.... but performance is still a priority.
The basic use of the machine will be running photoshop CS3 and other small tasks.
This is what I am considering
Operating system:Windows Home Premium 64 bit (although i am a little confused as to which windows I need
Processor:Intel CPU Core 2 Quad Q6600 2.4GHz S-775 1066MHz 2x4MB Boxed Kentsfield
or
Intel CPU Core 2 Duo E6850 3.0GHz S-775 1333MHz 4MB "Conroe" Boxed
both are about the same price. One is quad core, the dual core has more Ghz
Motherboard:I am lost here... there are SO many to choose from
I have heard that an intel P35 card is recommended, or nforce 680i, or Asus P5B.. but am open to suggestions
RAM2048 MB DDR dual channel pc3200 CC2 (kept from the old computer)
Video cardNvidia Geforce 6800 ultra (kept from the old computer)
Sound CardSoundblaster Audigy
Power SupplyOCZ powerstream 520W (from old computer)
Hard Drives WD Harddisk 150.0GB SATA 10000RPM 3.5" 16MB "Raptor"
2X 250 gb SATA 7200 rmp drives for working files (configured in RAID from old computer)
1X 500 GB storage drive (from old computer)
Disk DrivesDVD / CD burner from old computer
Other CardsUSB / Firewire / internet card taken from old computer
monitorLacie photon20vision monitor (from old computer)
And just because i know it is coming - no i am not interested in a mac

I have a mac powerbook and a pc desktop so i have tried both - and would rather build my own desktop.