Advice with first time build

[boomslang]

Hi, i`ve decided to have a go at building a system

Any advice with compatibility or alternative parts will be much appreciated.

components -

case/psu - Antec Sonata II
mobo - MSI K8N Neo4 Platinum
processor - AMD Athlon 64 3200 Venice or 3500 Venice
graphics - Connect3D Radeon X800GTO 256mb
harddrive - Segate Barracuda ST3200822A 200Gb 7200RPM ATA/100 8Mb
cd/dvd - Sony CRX320E combo
memory - Corsair Value Select 1GB PC3200(400)

all retail. would be using for games
cheers.

[saphalline]

You'd be better served by a Radeon X1600 XT (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16814102657) at that price, or a GeForce 7600 GT (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16814130283) for a bit more money. Otherwise, there are much cheaper Radeon X800 GTO's out there - don't spend more than $115 on one.

As for the mobo, I'd be inclined to suggest the Asus A8N-E (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16813131530) for cheaper, or just move up to an SLI mobo (remember, you don't have to use the SLI). The MSI Neo4 Platinum is a good mobo, but it has a RAM limitation with four double-sided modules that kicks it from any elite spot. Too bad, too, because it is otherwise a stellar mobo.

[boomslang]

cheers saphalline.
what about the processor, is it worth paying the extra for the 3500 venice?

[saphalline]

Both the 3200+ and the 3500+ are cost-effective CPU's to buy. It's worth the price either way. It will mostly come down to preference. If you need to shave off some money, get the 3200+. If you have a bit extra, get the 3500+.