A couple of comments. First, while it is true Intels tend to cost more, it is important to keep in mind the CPU is but one component you must buy. So after factoring in the cost of the motherboard, case, RAM, power supply, drives, operating system (and keyboard, mouse, monitor(s) and speakers), the difference between an AMD and an Intel system is not very much. And since Intels as a whole line (with a few exceptions, of course) tend to be more efficient and generate less heat, the cost can easily balance out over the life of the computer.
People bash things they don't understand or can't have, or because they think it trendy or cool to bash. That's silly as either AMD or Intel will make an excellent platform for your computer.
The important thing you need to remember is once you decide on a AMD or Intel, then decide on a motherboard, you need to look at the motherboard's QVLs (qualified vendors lists) of compatible CPUs and RAM. Understand you need to pick a CPU from the list, but there are too many RAM makers and models for mobo makers to test and certify them all. So for RAM, you need to buy RAM that matches listed RAM. Your QVLs are located
here.
RAM: 8GB 4x2GB Kingston HyperX. i've always been told that more chips is better hence the 4x2gb, but if thats no longer true then i'll get the 2x4gb.
Well then, you've always been told something not true. Get 2 x 4Gb.
And lastly, any and all recommendations to help make the computer quiet. this thing gets insanely loud so i'm looking for any possible recommendations from silent fans, to possibly even some of the sound foam or anything.
Cooling and sound suppression are the responsibility of the case. So get a good case. I like the
Antec Three Hundred. It is reasonably priced, very well built, sturdy, "true" (exactly 90° bends), lots of large (120mm or larger) fan support, including a 140mm “blowhole” (top) fan. It is not flashy, plus it has removable, washable air filters. I will never buy a case again that does not have removable, washable air filters. And I like a case to sit quietly and discretely off to the side and not draw attention to itself. Therefore, I don't like fancy facades that go out of style, or flashy bright lights that do nothing for performance, consume some power, generate some heat, and do nothing for performance - worth repeating. After all, I tend to pay attention to what's on my monitors, and not what my case is doing.
If budget allows, the
Antec Nine Hundred Two V3, with its monster, but silent 200mm "blowhole" (top) fan is hard to beat - even with its blue LEDs.
I don't see a PSU listed. Don't try to cut budget corners with a budget power supply. Make sure you buy a supply from a reputable maker and that it is
80 PLUS certified. I prefer Corsair and Antec PSUs.
Lastly, I don't see an operating system listed. A common mistake is some users assume they can use their old Windows license on a new computer or when upgrading their motherboards. Understand only a "boxed" full
Retail license can be transferred to a new computer (or upgraded motherboard). It is
illegal to use an OEM license that came with or was purchased for one computer on another computer. A disk “branded” with a computer maker’s brand name, or is labeled with “OEM/System Builder”, “Upgrade”, “Academic Edition”, or "For Distribution with a new PC only", is
not transferable to a new PC (or upgraded motherboard) under
any circumstances. These OEM licenses are inextricably tied to the "original equipment". So if that is the case, I recommend 64-bit Windows 7 or one of the many free Linux alternatives. Just ensure it is 64-bit since you have selected 8Gb of RAM. Note I am just the messenger stating the facts here. This is all in the EULAs we agreed to abide by when we first used our OEM software.