I built a computer about 1 1/2 years ago for gaming and general multimedia stuff, and it has worked very well but is starting to get a bit slower, and the multitude of programs I have started running for different purposes are starting to affect the performance.

Asus M2n-32 sli deluxe 570
Am2 x2 5200+ windsor w/ 92mm zalman
Geforce 8800gts 320mb
2 gb Geil ddr2 800
1 500gb WD
1 250gb WD
Onboard sound
EVGA indtube tv tuner

I use the computer for everything, work and play. Stereo, tv, gaming etc... What would get me the most value, upgrading the processor to a 6400+ and adding in a hd4850, or just straight up adding a 4870 in?

I like to run things with AA and at high settings so a 4870 would make a ton of sense, but I also want an improvement in my xp system performance, and I worry that upgrading a processor would be too much of a band-aid and just not worth it.

Thanks for any input.

Yep you need a quad core, preferably Intel. 6400 is not going to cut it, and would definitely drag down the performance of a 4870.

Q6600+P35(P5K-E in specific)+4GB DDR2-800 ram+HD4870.

that should last you another year or two.

Good advice for a new system, but he's asking about upgrading CPU+GPU. An overclocked 6400+ Black Edition would make a difference, but you could also go for a Phenom Quad if your mobo supports it. Since you have an sli mobo, i'd go for a 9800GT & 2 more GB of ddr2, then later on get another 9800GT.

i mean the intel Q6600 is better then AMD's quad in both clock for clock and OC potential.its the price for the Q6600 make it a bargain s why not? and of course he will need a new mobo along with the new GPU he ask for.