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Hey all. Before I get into my question you'll need a little background.

I recently got a job as a Technology consultant though a local consulting company. I get to a client that's running Vista, just to find out I don't know half as much as I thought I did about it. So I buy Vista, do a fresh install, and get it ready to go, taking the plunge to force myself to learn the quirks of this new OS.

But lo and behold that while everything "runs" I find that it just doesn't run as smoothly and flawlessly through applications that I'm running, and I need that. Due to me doing a large amount of work from home now, easy and smooth multi-tasking is a must, because I don't want my system slowing down. One of the applications I will admit I multi-task with is World of Warcraft, just so you can take that into consideration.

All that being said, I was looking at this CPU, but my basic question is what would be some recomendations? I'm not afraid to spend a little money if I need to, but I really don't want to spend too much. All I need is the CPU, MoBo, and RAM. The only cavet is that it must be SLI capable, because I'm going to use my existing 8800GTS's.

I don't overclock so you don't need to factor that into your advice. I like gigabyte mobo's, but am willing to try anything as long as it has a decent track record. Thanks for your help!

Your only good budget option would be 780i with DDR2. The 790i does DDR3 exclusively so that'll cost more for about 5% memory performance gain, according to Tom's.

The best bang quad would be Q6600. Mind you. I'm an overclocker and I'm not liking the prices of Yorkies. Otherwise, I would've switched ages ago.

If it were me in your shoes, I would consider the following items. Remember this is only my opinion.

CPU: Q6600 as stated in the previous post, or a Q9450.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Prod [...] 6819115017
http://shop3.outpost.com/product/5 [...] IN_RSLT_PG
Mobo: I like EVGA so I would get the EVGA 750i since your not running tri-sli
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Prod [...] 6813188026
RAM: Crucial Ballistix Tracer Model: BL2KIT12864AL804
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Prod [...] 6820148076

Again these are my personal recommendations, they all have great reviews, and don't break the bank. Hope this helps. If not you know where to find us.

The only problem is that I don't OC, which is why I'm willing to pay a little.