Forget the i7 and save money with the i5 unless you really need the faster computer for doing stuff other than games.

@Lind_L_Taylor said:

(or maximum of 3.1: 2 speakers, 1 subwoofer).

Don't you mean 2.1? the .1 is supposed to be the sub.

Forget the i7 and save money with the i5 unless you really need the faster computer for doing stuff other than games.

@Lind_L_Taylor said:

(or maximum of 3.1: 2 speakers, 1 subwoofer).

Don't you mean 2.1? the .1 is supposed to be the sub.

@Hameyadea: Mobos have built-in sound cards, those should be fine. Alternatively you can use the optical output (from the mobo) to a stereo/surround system & just use that for your speakers, if you have one near your Desktop. That's what I've done. Although I'm from the camp that believes you only need two good stereo speakers rather than 5.1 or 7.1, etc (or maximum of 3.1: 2 speakers, 1 subwoofer).

Look at Tom's Hardware for best gpu, gaming cpu, and SDD for the money. Maximum PC's Best of Guide for everything pc hardware related, or their Recommended Build for a gaming pc.

@PHARAOH said:

Get a sabertooth motherboard so you can deal amd and nividia crazy price wars.

get motherboard to "deal" graphics-cards, wut?

Get a sabertooth motherboard so you can deal amd and nividia crazy price wars.

No need for the i7 if you are intending to use the machine for gaming; the i5 is perfect for gaming, and it'll save you some cash to spend on other components. Soundcards are totally unnecessary these days, most motherboards come with sufficient on-board sound. You can use a site like this http://pcpartpicker.com/ to help do some more research, and read up on reviews.

Sound card?! Pfffffffffffffffffffft.

You don't really need a sound card. You will also need power, probably 650-750 depending on what else you get. You also need a case, Wireless card, if you want wireless internet, and disc drive.

For the last 4-or-so years, I wanted (and needed) to upgrade my machine and I feel that I can't hold it off for much longer. Currently I'm eyeing Intel's i7 Core and nVidia's GeForce 650 and higher. Can you recommend a good Sound Card, Motherboard and any other components I might need, and any good retailers/outlets that offer the items at good price and have a worldwide shipping abilities (I heard that Newegg and Amazon are quite good choices).