Strange boot-up problem with new build

[wWooDd]

I built a new rig a week ago and every thing ran smooth until I started fetching the most up-to-date drivers.

The issue is that Windows loads and when it normally switches over to the desktop (that blib for the resolution change) the monitor loses signal and there is no (appearent)HDD activity.

This started when I updated the drivers for my 7950gx2. I updated to v.91.47 with the Xtreme-G driver - ran some benchmarks and then tried the offical release 91.47 drivers; using Driver & Cab cleaner to ensure a smooth uninstall/install. That is when the issue started. About every other restart or so the freeze would happen. Quickly hit reset and it boots again to the desktop no problem. Figured it was the drivers, but didn't have a chance to swap drivers yet.

Now, as I said I thought it was the drivers. The problem now happens every time I restart - leaving me bewildered. I changed back to the drivers that came with the disc (since those were the most stable) but the problem persisted - my monitor would go back & forth between display modes for a long time before the desktop would load - if it loads.

By all means once the switch is made the system runs fine, I could run 3Dmark06 all day and the system will not faulter - its just this odd startup.

These are my system specs, any settings (bios, overclock) are default:

P5N32-SLI Deluxe
7950GX2
Intel E6600
OCZ ADJ 600W-sli PSU
Corsair XMS (2gig)
Audigy 4

Any help is appreciated!

 

[wWooDd]

Ok, I find this is strictly a Windows problem. I was forced into a format previously when it refused to properly do a Windows repair (always crashed). The system ran fine until the same stuff begins to happen. This is the pattern:

Windows will load and hang for a second at the welcome screen (typical of any updates) - I get a message stating that part of the registry had to be replaced. The result could be a complete wipe of the registry or one or two items were lost for unkown reasons, such as I lost only my onboard sound support this time around. Afterwards Windows will progressively load more slowly during that black transition between the loading sequence and the welcome screen. Windows beocmes less & less responsive until it does not load at all (no harddrive activity).

Safe mode runs without a hitch - if Windows does load normally nothing faulters. I have yet to have any harddrive monitoring utilities give me any warnings what so ever (no warnings, no bad sectors, etc.) - that is even if the harddrive is a factor.

I am really in a pinch here guys. I have no idea what is causing this yet I cannot just keep wiping the drive clean hoping for an easy answer.