Hardware/2010 Desktop

Goal

Sub-$300 with Dual-DVI and lots of memory (4GB if possible.)

Don't need a lot of storage, but gigabit ethernet + wireless would be nice.

Needs to be quiet as well---3.5 db or thereabouts.

DDR2 vs DDR3

Back in 2007, it appears DDR3 was more expensive without any benefit. http://www.tomshardware.com/forum/245145-30-ddr2-ddr3

Today, 2010, 2GB of DDR2 PC6400 is about $50. DDR3 is only about $5 more expensive but claims much faster speeds.

DECISION: DDR3.

AMD vs. Intel

I have always liked AMD. Nowadays, AMD seems to have a much better price point.

The socket AM3 set seems to provide the best price/performance ratio.

http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=5774823

Apparently, you can unlock 2 more cores on the above to get a quad-core system. It's only 65W, which is very low. Low watts means low power means less fan noise.

Motherboard

Motherboard integrated graphics is a must. I might upgrade later, but it's unlikely.

http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=4540507

Case and Power Supply

Lookign for something quiet.