The $3600 figure is based on the assumption that you are BUYING a computer, NOT BUILDING.

As stupid as it is to purchase a computer like that, since if you're into this kind of thing, you should know a bit about the hardware, some people genuinely cannot build one (or there parents are rich and / or would rather do that than the kid breaking something).

My rig, when built at the first of 2008, cost me $1200. I've got a rig that could compete with or beat the machine in the article on my Newegg wishlist that costs less than my current machine cost me last year.

I agree that I would love 3600 to throw around. ^^