Built in features on motherboards can save some $$, but may also cost some features.

My current project involves getting the fastest 2nd machine I can get for as cheap as possible. I don't play too many games, just a little Starcraft now and then, but I don't want to rule out game play because of lousy system performance.

The primary system use is home web surfing & Windows 2000 skill development.

I've investigated several boards, like the FIC PAG-2130, Amptron P598LMR, & AOpen's Mx59Pro.

Am I selling my soul by getting an integrated board? The Amptron has LAN, modem, sound, video (2x AGP). The others, just video & sound. What can I expect?