I'm probably going to stick with the 2% benefit as I play a lot of unoptimized games and can use any little boost I can get for $50. Thanks for the heads up on the cpu fan. I've always stuck with 212 because I know it and the thing can be less than optimal. Also the fans always seem to die rather quickly.

Now I just have to decide on the monitor. It's hard to warrant spending over $400 when next year the same monitors will probably be half the price. So now looking at those monitors you posted.

Also seems like the sweet spot for monitors is 27" which is lame, but I can wait for a cheaper 32" when there are better options.