Input on new system

Athlon 2000+ $150
Asus A7N8X Delux $222
512 MB PC2700 (2 sticks, 256 each) $129 X 2
128MB Radeon 8500le $150
All Prices are Canadian

Then I'm using components I already own

40X LG
Audigy
7200 RPM 40 GB Maxtor
Logitech Cordless Freedom Optical

Do you plan to overclock? If so wait for the Athlon XP 1800+ Tbred Rev.B that will be out soon. If possible look for AUICB stepping. You could probably expect that to overclock to 2.3 gHz with good air cooling. That mobo you described uses the Nforce 2 chipset right? If not get the Asus mobo with nforce 2 chipset.

Your ram seems good but you may want to go for some Corsair XMS 3500 if you can afford it. The stuff is real expensive but is the best quality and overclocks better than most.

As for the vid card I would got with a G4 Ti4200 128mb. They are faster than 8500 and overclock well. I have heard good things about MSI and albatron. Steer clear of Gainward.

Goodluck!!
-Justin