"But in this case the user is asking about specific systems, way below the class ($$) that Jim or Scott supply"
Point taken, but Jim or Scott will be "cheaper" in the long run.
Just my nickel 98...
T

I agree their prices will be better.  Look at the thread about the Sweetwater Creation Station PC's. 

I referred the user to one of our DAW builders rather than the Creation Station, that was overpriced.

The OP didn't actually state anywhere that $500 was his budget - he said he was looking at a system that cost $500 - big difference.

FWIW, No matter who builds the DAW... as long as they know what they're doing... IMO you're *always* best off with a custom built machine.
That's the great thing about running a PC...
You can choose exactly what goes inside.
Make good choices... and you have a great DAW (no compromises).

  Well, I missed out on all of those, but I found this:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eB...Item&item=330842431962

Would this be a good deal on a i7 3770 system? ADVthanksANCE once again to The Collective. -Jack