Hardware q's (new box)

[dawdler]

I know this aint a hardware forum (got Rage3D for that), but I happen to like this forum so I'll post anyway for the sake of discussion.

I'm gonna get a new box soon (well, hopefully) but I'm wondering what the hardcore gamers consider is good in terms of CPU vs GPU balance. For example, I can get this:

3700+ A64 San Diego
MSI Nforce 4 Ultra (slightly towards the cheaper side)
1gb Corsair something (not the value line though)
X1900XT 512mb

OR something in the line of

4400+ A64 X2 (or around there)
Probably an SLI mobo for future upgrade possibility (unlikely I take that route though)
Same memory
7800GT 256mb or X1800XL (the former is quite a bit cheaper though)

Both setups would come fairly close to each other in terms of price (the former being maybe $100-150 more expensive). The tradeoff is obvious, a stronger CPU or a stronger GPU.

I'm having difficulty deciding route to go, but my personal opinion is that the X1900XT can be a MUCH better advantage in the future than the X2 CPU.

Keep in mind I'm not a frequent upgrader. I still run on a 2400+/9800Pro.