Build advice please

Hello all, I came across the DS website a couple weeks ago, and I'm very impressed with the build options, customer service reviews, and forums.

My budget for a new rig is about $2300. I plan to use the computer for games mostly, but music, movies, and some dvd encoding are also important. I also still need a monitor in the price range of $200-$300. I've been looking at monitors on newegg (not necessary buy from them) if anyone has any input.

http://www.digitalstormonline.com/comploadsaved.asp?id=433047

I did trim most of the fat and I'm pretty happy with this build. I was on the fence about a couple options. My first build didn't have a sound card, but every computer I've ever owned had one. I have Klipsch 4.1 pro media speakers that are sill hanging in there after 10 years, would replace with Logitech Z-5500 if I needed to.

I oped for the Corsair power supply over the DSO. Second would I see any big difference in temps or over clocking with the d-14 cooler ? Lastly is there any real difference between the EVGA 480 and the regular version besides the step up program and warranty ? Do you think the EVGA brand is worth the extra money ?

We have almost the exact same build. Mine just has an 80 gig SSD and a 500 HHD + Bluray. From all that I have gathered with my research and the advice on these forums, that build is pretty much the best value you can get.

Thanks for the replays. My current sound card is from 04-05, but I've been having trouble with it, so went for the new one. I'd rather have DS support than creative also. Can anyone with a cooler master case tell me if the front hot swap HHD bays work well ? Do you get full rated speed ? 

Edited by Entropius - 17 Aug 2010 at 1:51pm