And please recommend the type of RAM. Also, would you recommend any extra fans on top of the CPU fan?

thanks

Moved: This thread is more suitable in Hardware and has been moved accordingly to help your thread/question get the exposure it deserves.

My prejudices...

I have had very good experience with Gigabyte boards and Corsair RAM. Brand names here usually mean quality. One important component that is overlooked is the PSU. It pays in the long run to have quite a good one.

A suggestion for CPU cooling...

I have a CPU that is over dimensioned for my use, but the the logic of the market said that less was not cheaper. I purchased an Arctic Cooling Alpine 64 PWM CPU cooler which would be suitable for overclocking, but for my use cools very well at a low speed. It is very quiet. Other brands of high capacity coolers that the mother board sensor regulates would work as well. My computer case is, of course, open to a good flow of air, and has a 12cm fan in the rear that is set to low speed. It is also quiet.

Good luck with your choices.

I'm a fan of Gigabyte boards as well, I also have several Intel Motherboards which have been nothing if not Rock Solid..

Check the Phoronix site for some Linux Motherboard reviews. http://www.phoronix.com/scan.php?pag...m=Motherboards