Need advice on new system...

[orion13]

I've built my last 3 PCs, (P3 650 Coppermine/440BX MB w/GeForce GTS 32mDDR...PS 450/440BX MB w/GeForce 256 32m...and a Cel300a/Via 133+ MB w/TNT 16m).
I've oc'd the 650 to 866 and the 300a to 410. The three systems are set up on a LAN and are used for internet access and multiplayer games such as UT, Starcraft etc. It's been forever-2+ years,since I've even tried to keed up with tech stuff.
I want to build an AMD system. $$$ is always an issue. I am thinking about an XP2600, but have no idea what chipset to look at for the MB. I like performance but I need a stable system. Also... a good solid video card, best bang for the $.
Please... any suggestions would be very helpful.

Thanks, Matt

[deadkenny]

For socket A, nForce2 is pretty much the way to go. Abit, ASUS or MSI are good manufacturers to consider. For the video, depends on exactly what you need it for. If you can live with relatively low end, you could get an nForce2 based m/b with integrated video and save some $'s. Usually integrated video is not very good, but the nForce2 integrated video is GF4MX, and is actually decent for onboard.

[orion13]

I should have been more clear. I would like to be able to play some of the newer games, ie... UT 2003 and a few other graphic intensive games. I want to get a good video card for under $100. I see that Radion and nVidia have several cards for under $100.

Radion 9600 SE 128m
Radion 9200 256m
Radion 9200 128m
Radion 9100 128m
Radion 9000 Pro 128m
GeForce FX 5600 128m
GeForce FX 5200 128m
GeForce4 TI 4200 128m
GeForce3 TI 200 128m

Which card will be the best on an nforce2 MB?

Any suggestions?

[Rob R.]

Of those listed, I would be inclined to get the Ti4200 myself. There is a Gainward Ti4200 on Newegg for about $100.

[mobo57]

I second the vote on the TI4200. Have two installed on systems here and they out perform the 2 systems with the fx 5200 hands down.

[Thundershaft]

TI 4200 all the way..
unless you can get a 4600 =)

or.. or.. 9600 pro for 50 dollar more =)

[missiveusa]

If you want to be able to play present day and future release games, spend a little more for the Radeon 9600 Pro or XT. They are DX 9 ready and perform better than the old Ti 4200. nForce2 chipset is the way to go for a Socket A platform.