check out Volecity Micro Systems

[Traveler]

I too got feed up with Dell, Compaq, IBM, you name it.  I found a supper gaming machine that didn't cost me an arm and a leg, I got it online from Volecity Micro.  They built the machine I wanted.  They built it , they tested it for ten days before shipping to me.   they provided a complete set doucmentation that you can really use.  Plus they proivded a complete system backup, so no matter what I did, I could always recover.

[FBScud]

I got fed up as well.  I researched, researched and researched.  Sorry to say (and I mean really sorry), I went with a Dell.  The boutiques (Alienware/Voodoo, etc.) just could't hit the price point.  Intel 3.6 with the 925 chipset MOBO, 1 gig DDR2 4200 RAM (at 530 mhz), nVidia GeForce 6800 w/256 mb PCI-e vid card, Windows XP Pro and the microsoft works suite I need for my work.  The 19 inch CRT monitor was only $50 and will be replaced as soon as a 21"  flat sceen LCD is developed that can handle AH2.  Boutiques couldn't touch the configuration for less than $1000 more.  I checked, believe me.  I wanted the Athlon 64 FX-53 with a 939 socket MOBO.  Just couldn't find it for anywhere close to what the Dell package is.  I'm hoping with the 925 chipset MOBO, I'll be able to upgrade when the time comes.  Regardless, this should run AH2 without a problem.  

[FBScud]

LOL...I should have added that I am well aware of the various benchmarks that place the Athlon 64 FX-53 well ahead of Intel's P4 3.6 ghz cpu.  BUT, AH2 is the ONLY game I play.  Thus, even though I have the resources to buy Alienware/Voodoo/etc., $1000 is still $1000.  My target is to play AH2 at max settings and have fun.  I'm not interested in Far Cry or Doom 3.  If you are, the reports clearly say spend the extra $1000 and get the Athlon 64 FX-53 screamer.  

[Skuzzy]

Just an FYI for most.  The 530Mhz DDR2 memory is just a tad slower than 200Mhz DDR1 ram due to latencies and DDR2 runs much hotter.