Processor

So, how does one go about choosing a processor? I've decided to build a computer to familiarize myself with hardware, and this is really the one thing I know nothing about. My mobo is AM2, and I'm thinking of getting a dual core. But beyond that, I'm lost. HALP?

>>1
What is your motherboard?  If it's worthless and you have some disposable cash, you might as well start over on Intel (or with a good AM2 mobo, which are actually much better values than LGA775 mobos right now).

If the mobo's worth keeping, any of the Brisbane X2s (65 W, 65 nm) will work great.  If you can wait until July 9, all AM2 X2s will drop in price by 20%.  Otherwise, best deal I've seen was a Brisbane X2-4400+ (2300 MHz) for $70 a few weeks ago.  Good sweet spot for price/performance.