For what it's worth, I built my custom rig in Summer 2011 for $600. 16 GB DDR3 ram, AMD A3 six-core @ 3.2 ghz/core, Radeon HD 6790 w/1GB VRAM, 3 TB SATA 6 HD, Raidmax Smilodon case, 500W PSU, ASUS mobo w/USB 3.0 support.
The Carnival of Shadows - Folk Punk from Asbury Park, New Jersey
http://www.thecarnivalofshadows.com