Nope, all prices include VAT.

Some more comparisons, but a little more relevant - comparing with the i7-860 rather than the i7-920.

The picture is similar, but just for accuracy sakes...

Anandtech: http://www.anandtech.com/cpuchipsets...spx?i=3641&p=7
Guru3D: http://www.guru3d.com/article/phenom...review-test/16

Sure, the Intel is the facster CPU, but then again everyone knows that. The point is what you get for your cash. The budget option comparison is the most accurate here, as the i7 option only has a budget mobo. ON that basis, you're looking at a >20% cost reduction, for a <10% performance reduction.

I'd still probably go with the high end mobo paired with the Phenom. Strong system platform, and gaming performance that's close enough to not make a difference in terms of actual game experience.

Also, all of these reviews will be using high end graphics cards (They use either a GTX280 or a HD5870). If you put a mid range GPU into both systems (I assume that Paul isn't planning on buying the best GPU that there is), the performance delta would be even less.

Paul, there are specials on all of the time, and prices can fluctuate daily. Let me know when you're ready to buy, and we'll see what things cost at that time...