Replacement CPU/MB - Need a good deal

[PacificNic]

I recently obtained a R9 290 for 225USD but my Phenom II X4 840 is holding it back. I'm not even running 1080p and on BF4 ultra my frames stick at around 50 but I get stuttering every once in a while. My CPU is at full load when playing but my GPU isn't. Any ideas on where/when I could get a good deal on a CPU, motherboard, and (possibly) a cooler?

Thanks to all!

Please keep all price/purchase links and info to the United States.

 

[RizeAllard]

Change to socket 1050 and and you will get some benefit from it... i5-4570K its around 169 pound (@ overlcockers.co.uk) with a new 1050 mobo like Gigabyte Gaming 5 z99X around 110 pound.

 

[barnsley]

How much do you want to spend?
At the very least you'll be looking at something like an 8320 with a midrange motherboard, which is ~£200. Obviously if you're not overclocking a locked i5 with an average motherboad will set you up around the same/slightly more. This is with stock coolers as well.

-edit- didn't see US.
AMD option comes to around $225.Link
Intel (not overclockable) option comes to around $278. Link

 

[PacificNic]

Change to socket 1050 and and you will get some benefit from it... i5-4570K its around 169 pound (@ overlcockers.co.uk) with a new 1050 mobo like Gigabyte Gaming 5 z99X around 110 pound.

I am in the United States, mate but thanks for the advice.

Also thanks to Barnsley for the advice and links. EDIT: The only thing that worries me is that the MSI board seems pretty new and could have some undiscovered issues. I am kinda strapped for cash so I don't want to take too big a risk.

 

[Xrqute]

I am in the United States, mate but thanks for the advice.

Also thanks to Barnsley for the advice and links. EDIT: The only thing that worries me is that the MSI board seems pretty new and could have some undiscovered issues. I am kinda strapped for cash so I don't want to take too big a risk.

Thats why RMA's exist my friend.

 

[PacificNic]

Thats why RMA's exist my friend.

That's always a hassle.... But you are right... How would one go about blacking out the MSI board without voiding the warranty? Electrical tape? Sharpie? I am not a huge fan of the red, but I can live with it if it means keeping a warranty.