I've probably asked like half a million people this already:

If I were to get a computer these days from nothing, I'd get a relatively cheap OEM machine, and add a few things. Sadly, it's often cheaper than building your own these days if you are going for something which is cheap rather than top end.

http://www.staples.ca/ENG/Catalog/ca...affixedcode=WW

I'd probably get this machine. And grab a used CRT from a local shop for ~40-70 for a 17-19" CRT. Not good, but cheap. Screens are something that I'd either spend very little on, or save to get a very good one.

If you want better graphics, a 6600GT is fine video card. The onboard should have good compatibility, but not enough power for the more shiny games.

If you want better sound something like this: http://www.tigerdirect.ca/applicatio...3680&CatId=107 or a cheap Creative card will be a step up from the onboard.

I'd try it out for a while, and decide which areas you want to put your money towards. Some people get by with onboard sound, some don't. The advantage you get here is that you get a fully functional machine, and can tweak it after the fact.

I can't say I recommend it, but I'd personally take the machine and put it in an Antec Sonata II case. I feel much better with a known quality power supply (included with case), and it is a much better case for noise reasons.

All the prices I listed and linked to are in Canadian dollars.

Jam it back in, in the dark.

Unfortunately Newegg doesn't ship to Canada.

There's nowhere I can't reach.