Gaming system for dummies.

[Zeldafan]

With the new ps4 and box one coming out, I decided that I would rather just start playing on pc.
I got a used computer from work, installed an internet card as well as a Geforce GT 620 card. Although these things seem to be working great, I am afraid that I only have about 2.2ghz of ram and my processor is a bit... dated- an Intel Core 2 Duo CPU E4500 @ 2.2ghz. I am able to run games on steam, like Skyrim, but the sound is kind of jacked up. It cuts in and out at random times. I have fantastic headphones and everything is updated. They work beautifully on my laptop, and on my desktop, but when it comes to playing Skyrim on the desktop, it's kind of buggy. I also would like to run the games in higher quality, but I can't for now because of the lag.
Anyway- the questions I am asking are:

1.) What is the best processor I can get for the money? (as well as being compatible)
2.) How much ram do you recommend I install? Should I go with a certain brand?
3.) Do you think that updating the above will solve the lag of higher res gaming?
4.) What do you think is up with the sound? The system requirements say my sound card is good.

Thank you much and may the triforce be with you 😉

 

[RaisingTheBarHD]

what is your budget?

 

[Zeldafan]

I'd like to stay under 300 USD. I've already invested quite a bit.

 

[Dags]

I would suggest an E8500 if your motherboard supports it and 4GBs of Ram should be fine. But these CPUs are a bit expensive on e-bay for what they offer. I would rather spend money on a new budget system which will perform better.

 

[Zeldafan]

How do I know what is supported by my motherboard?

 

[Zeldafan]

bump