Need help, been out of the game a while

[Paveslave]

My parents need a new computer and the last time I built one was over 2 years ago. They have an AMD 1600 bred system right now and would like an up to date one. I figure I have $600-$1000 to spend on it. What combos right now would fit that bill that won't give them any trouble. I am a giga-byte fan and have yet to discover a problem with the mobo I got from them so I wouldn't mind sticking with it. Can you guys recommend a simple build that can be operated without much hassle by people that don't know too much about computers?

What components are out there that will offer performance, stability, and quality for that price range? I'm looking for your experiences with your builds.. please point me in the right direction. Thanks


EDIT:
I forgot to mention the processor maker is not an issue, I want to go with whatever performs better. They have an AMD now, they are jealous of my P4, but I don't know for that price who is the better competitor. I am open to a good build either way. Thanks

 

[fbrdphreak]

Seems like wrong forum, but whatever
Why do they need to upgrade from a 1600 TBred? My gf has a 1700 from a few years back w/512 & a 7200RPM drive and does everything/anything she needs. It seems that there might be a specific need as to why they have to upgrade.

Right now I would say the A64 is the better buy. There are CPU/mobo combo deals all the time, but I don't know if they are with brand name boards. These days it seems socket 939 is the best long-term upgrade route. If they might want to change out CPU's or something in the future, go socket 939. If it is going to stay put until the next major upgrade (i.e. replace mobo/cpu), then you might want to save some $ and go Socket 754. Either way, a 2800+ - 3200+ CPU will run great. For socket 754, the 2800+ can be had dirt cheap and will still run like a champ. For socket 939, pick up a 90nm 3000+ or 3200+. They run cool and fast. Mobo wise, Gigabyte is a great company. MSI, Asus, and DFI are also up there. For Socket 939, the new Gigabyte boards are suppose to be sweet. Check out AT's reviews on the 939 boards for specifics. For Socket 754, there is the Chaintech VNF-3 (something like that) for the budget side of things. I hear its a great performer that just cuts out the bells & whistles. On the higher end, there is the MSI K8N Neo Platinum. It is loaded with lots of great features and is a strong performer. If you can find a good deal on 1GB RAM, go for that; otherwise 512MB should be sufficient. Keep in mind with socket 939 that it can utilize dual channel RAM, so finding a cheap set of 2x512MB would be very valueable and set your 'rents up with some great performance.

If you get more specific I can get more specific GL