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If you're getting a SocketA motherboard, I would put the Abit NF7-S even higher on the list than the Asus A7N8X-E Deluxe, partly because the Abit uses the ATX12V four-pin auxiliary power cable to help deliver 12-volt power to the motherboard. It also has an excellent reputation among the owners, and is a first-class overclocker
Is your power supply a good-quality brand with adequate 12-volt amperage?
Also, if you're building a gaming system, and do not already have a CPU (?), then you should probably get an Athlon64, perhaps with an Asus K8N.