What is a great CPU for a $500 gaming PC? It can be AMD or Intel, I don't care.
Phenom 2 X4 965
An AMD A10 also would be a good choice, as you can use hybrid graphics with it.
If you decide to go with the A10, wait untill next month for the updated "richland" version to come out.
Phenom 2 1055t it is cheaper then the 965 and if you OC it alot better.
1055t's are difficult to find, they are not cheaper than phenoms, and you can't overclock them at all, as they are not available in BE.
1055T can be overclocked via FSB, but only with a decent board, and good solid memory.
http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=7683952&CatId=4431
Now what the fuck were you saying again?
My bad, I didn't check Tigerdirect.
The Thuban X6 chips actually OC very well, but you will need to fiddle with memory, HT, etc. multipliers to keep all the subsystems stable as you cautiously increase the FSB.
Don't get crazy with the voltage - the chips don't need as much as the older Phenoms. Most will reach 3.8+ on stock voltage. Pushing the V and gunning for 4+GHz doesn't get more than a few more % performance, but creates a lot more heat.
Tiger has periodic sales on their X6 chips.