Which graphics card(s) for my motherboard?

Don't know what the best Nvidia card is for the money but it's going to be between the 470 and the HD5850 (which is the best ATI card for the money). Do you have a 120hz monitor? If not, I wouldn't bother factoring Nvidia's 3D capabilities into your decision. Look online for benchmarks between the GTX 470 and the HD 5850 and make your decision based on that. I'm an ATI guy but you seem to be more comfortable with Nvidia cards so go with the 470.