Unless you're dead-set on getting an RTX, I'd wait... Not seeing enough improvement to justify the $$. But that's just me.

From a price/performance perspective, it's not a waste at all. Looking at the marks for the 2080 Ti, you're still getting better performance for the $$.

Allan..

"The "point" of AIO's, is to sell the hype of "liquid cooling" to the uneducated trend chasing masses. AIO's are not here for any durability/longevity purposes"

"Why would you even consider an AIO?"

Precisely why I am posting here. To quote.. "I know just enough to be dangerous". ;) I've gently to moderately mod-ed store-bought systems/chassis I own over the years, and this will be my first foray into a full-up build. I know (or think I do, at least) enough at this point that I feel confident enough to attempt this. However, I also freely admit I don't know it all... hence my posting on this forum. Finer points, such as the one you have toipc out, are precisely why I am posing this question on this forum.

Folks, my deepest thanks for your advice and help.. it's truly appreciated!

Gil, thanks for the heads-up on the cooler. I'll start poking about on the Enermax options.

Mark, this PC I'm spec'ing will be a multi-use machine... some professional, some personal use.

The TDP's I can design and adjust for, plus I am also looking downstream toward CPU/component upgrades...from what I have learned so far, the TR4 socket boards seem to offer more lifespan and durability in that regard.

My thanks for your response Sir!

Gilroar, from what you're saying coupled with what I've been able to glean from various forums, I tend to agree.

Thank you for your input Sir!

Edit: I'm leaning strongly to the Asus - ROG Strix X399-E Gaming EATX TR4 Motherboard, with a Cryorig AOI, either the A40 Ultimate or A80..