I let her pick it. Details [link|http://www.ecs.com.tw/products/pd_spec.asp?product_id=269|here]. I don't know about the RAM. I trust her to get decent stuff. The only manufacturer I insisted on was Plextor. Even though she says she has found a rebranded source for Plextors about 20% cheaper.When she dropped off the system she forgot to bring all the paperwork, I'll get that tomorrow.