Yes I checked on the MSI site that it can handle dual core.
Hmm i've already bought a new cpu - i will hold off on buying a gfx card until I have installed the ram and processor then. Thx for the tip Raptah.
I'm sure my mobo can handle dual core - it's nfroce4 chipset and i found it at the MSI sight with wulle's excellent guidance (he got me using cpuz too which helped massively).
• Supports 64-bit AMD® Opteron™, Athlon™ 64 X2 Dual Core, Athlon™ 64 FX, Athlon™ 64 processor (Socket 939)
• Supports up to 3500+, 3800+ Athlon 64 FX 53, or higher CPU
http://www.msicomputer.co.uk/index.php?func=proddesc&prod_no=165&maincat_no=1&cat2_no=&cat3_no=
I did want to run at a higher resolution so i may end up buying a graphics card anyway - but i guess i should first overclock the pants off the one i have, although this card has had a tendancy to run VERY hot ever since I got it.
If overclocking this card and with my new setup gets me what i want i might have a go at watercooling for fun