i've had amd as long as i can remember(this doesn't include the x86 processors i had in my unknowingly years ) however i think that no matter what cpu you buy at this time you will be robbed.. Jesus christ, they're expensive! You better grap down deep in your pockets and buy a dual core amd and be safe for the next 4 years!

Gpu: Get an NVidia gfx processor. They are far ahead of ati at the moment. My next card which will probably go in a few months will be a 7800gt(maybe x if i get the money)(i've a ati 9600pro at the moment which is really getting a bit sloppy..). Feel the power SM3.0 which will not have the startup-implementations of the new ati's.

Mobo: Do not try save money here! This can really get expensive later on. The new Via chipset for amd's would probably do it but i would go with a nVidia chipset as i have very good experiences with those.

Well that was my ramblings. Happy shopping