2nd Mid Life Upgrade

[Zachstar]

As you know due to shipping issues I have had to abandon newegg and hopes for a new build for this year.

So instead I am going to spend 300-400 USD on upgrades for this computer so it serves the purpose of a temporary stepping stone to a Windows 7 monster next year.

I will be remaining with my current install of Windows XP. Yes a reformat is desired but useless because it will be months before I can tweak it back to the speed it has now.

I wish to attempt an overclock. 3.2 to 3.5 GHz. I know this is a bit risky but I think even my stock cooler can handle it as it only goes full speed when it powers on. And I will be putting in a new cooler!

I am limited to Tiger Direct and Amazon with Ebay in there for lucky buys maybe.

I want a 500gb Media drive for several reasons. #1 My current drive is nearly full with just programs and games. #2 I need room for DVR programs. #3 I need to reduce stress on the main HD.

I am sticking with Nvidia for this computer. It has worked well with it and I am taking enough risks as it is with the overclock.
My current PC specs

Base model: Gateway 500GR
CPU: Intel 3.2GHz with HT enabled
Ram: 1.5GB up from .5 base (huge improvement)
Video: Nvidia 7300Gt up from Ati X300 (HUGE improvement)

The 7300 is pretty powerful IF you do not have any of the massive hogs enabled like AA. but even the forest areas of World of Warcraft cause it to bog down.

My question is. IF I do not want to pay a ton of money yet remain atleast in the 8x series what do I need to look for? I hear some 8x series are actually weaker than their 7x counterparts..

One I am looking at

http://www.tigerdirect.com/applicati...465&CatId=2306