So my current machine goes back to Wotlk - super dated. Q6600, 8GB Ram, a ATI 5750 and SSD I added later. It's fine questing and in instances, and small BGs, but it really really chokes at times. Orgrimmar is now impossible as is some of the quest hubs.

I don't think there is a whole lot I can upgrade on my current machine, but I'm not really in a position to spend $1.5-$3k on the system I *really* want.

Given my machine is 4 years old now I'd be surprised is a $500 rig doesn't blow this thing away and is good enough for 4-5 boxing.

But on the other hand, I don't want a capped out machine, I wonder if it were possible to throw $500 into a machine, use my existing power supply (very nice 800w aftermarket) and the SSD, and end up with a machine I can upgrade as I go.

I'd also be keen on buying your used GPUs

Recommendations?