The CPU retainer is boxed separately, for whatever reason. The user installs it.
The cheapest price I've seen is $184. The highest is $400+ at Zip Zoom Fly (HAHAHA).
This board comes in 3 configurations, but the one with integrated audio and video is by far the most common. Don't have any price info on the other versions.
Did I mention the cost? Yes, again, it is expensive, especially for a non-SLI board.
Now, while I can't say that money is no object, I can say that I will be using this computer for quite awhile if history is any indicator. I am typing this on an Abit BM6, Tualatin powered box... so that should tell you something. In other words, the cost per year for me will be much less than for those who upgrade every time the wind shifts. It only makes sense, therefore, that I want to get this right from the get go.
Since Tyan is well known for their server boards, and since lots of RAM is important to me (semi-pro Photoshop maven and MAC turncoat) I figure that if anyone can get the 32bit OS/4G of RAM thing right, Tyan can.
The only thing that bothers me is the passive cooling on the northbridge chipset. I really want to add a heat pipe or fan. Is that doable?