Question : Problem: Recommended Components - building WIN7 desktop

I am looking for specific detailed recommendations for the components to use (details and links) in building a desktop that is designed for Windows 7 - possibly dual-booting with XP-Pro.
There will be days when I will be using this computer for several hours at a stretch, so the Video Card will be critical - and I already have one 64 Bit system and don't want another.

I am specifically looking for recommendations based on your actual experience with the components.

I won't overload this initial comment with details because I know that some of you do this for a living - but will reply to any questions/details you ask.

Budget estimate is $1,000 - but I used to work for the Government, so I know what estimates are like.

Thanks for your attention.

Answer : Problem: Recommended Components - building WIN7 desktop

Vic,

I'll give you as many details as I can if it proves necessary. The easiest answer is that if it works well with Vista, it'll work just as well with Windows 7. Tests I've seen for the Win 7 beta show it is more responsive than Vista and will run well on good XP hardware.

I'd just go with an E8500. Q6600 or Q9550 CPU, a Gigabyte P45 chipset mobo, and a video card that suits your gaming needs. The Radeon 3850 and 4850 cards are excellent values based on price/performance.

I'm afraid I haven't installed Win 7 yet. I need a new PC myself with more horsepower and much larger hard disks.