[mtripoli]

I usually build a new computer every five years or so. When I do, I do it "to the max" knowing that it'll be a while before the next one. It's been well over 5 years since my last new system (economy, starting new business, etc.). From time to time I've incrementally bumped things up; more memory, faster drives. When I built my "main" machine I put an Nvidia Quadro FX4500 in it. At the time I got the card for $700 (normally a $2000 card). The other day on a whim I started looking on eBay for a new card. At the end of the day I got a Nvidia Quadro FX 5500 for $152.50 (plus $10 shipping). Popped that baby in and off and running. This card is still very relevant today; Amazon lists them at $550.00. Point is, if you can "live with" old stuff some really great deals are out there.