I would have to recommend ATi but it seems you're leaning more towards Nvidia and SLi. Personally, if you have the cash, I would go with 9800GX2. I just happen to like that card a lot. If I went with an Nvidia setup, I would get that or the GTX280. The 9800GX2 is popular amongst the Crysis Afficionados although I heard rumors of microstuttering. It's up to you. The 9800GX2 will last you longer, and you could even use it in your next build. There are cheap cards when it comes to price but I usually go for the more high end stuff when they drop in price. They'll last you longer and you can use it in your next build.
Now of course, if you go with an ATi setup. HD4870 or HD4870x2, hands down. Not only because price:performance beats virtually everything on the market, I'm really liking what ATi is doing with their technology. It's very impressive. And you can always crossfire with another card and it will pretty much own every game out there for another 1-2 years, if not more. Dont quote me for this stuff, it's my preference and what I think is great right now. Of course, it's really up to you.
The GTX280 is another great card but the price is just too much. If price drops then sure, why not. But of course, you'll have to overclock so you dont get bottlenecking. Look in to the GTX260 which is right up there with HD4850 and HD4870. I would say in between those two cards.
I might get flamed for this, but if you're a hardcore gamer or if you want the "good stuff", ditch the 7 & 8 series cards. Go with 9*** or 200 series.
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