New system Build For Under $3000

[JackCoke]

I have been thinking of building a new computer instead of buying one.  I have very little experience but I have always been the type to learn as I go.  I primarily use the system for gaming and downloading music.  Could someone give me a great build so I can get started.  Any help would be appreciated.  The system should include a new monitor.  Thanks.

[midnightfire]

you can build a pretty sick system with 3k. i suggest going to newegg.com and doing a little research. here's one system i concocted for under $1500:

1 lite-on combo drive (23.99)
1 lg 20x dvd burner (24.99)
antec 900 case (129.99)
2x 250gb seagate barracuda sata 3gb/s hard drives (119.98 or 59.99 each)
lg 22" widescreen monitor (279.99)
asrock am2+/am2 nforce 780i motherboard (189.99)
2x evga geforce 8800gt video cards for sli (299.98 or 149.99 each)
corsair 750w power supply (129.99)
4gb (2x2gb) mushkin ddr2 800 ram (93.98 or 46.99 for 2 gigs)
amd athlon 64 x2 6000+ 3ghz socket am2 processor (92.99)

it comes out to a little over $1400 after shipping. but don't just take this build and do it. do some research for yourself, determine whether or not you like amd or intel, ati or nvidia, etc. and if this build tickles your fancy, then go with it. good luck!

[JackCoke]

Thanks.  I actually have had better luck with intel and nividia.  I just wanted a list to work off of.  I have been a lot of reading but it becomes overwhelming with the amount of different products.