I thought I read in another thread somewhere that the OEM version would only allow me to install to this machine and one other in the future.
Yes, while that is true, how much more are you paying for retail? Also, keep in mind, Windows 7 is scheduled to be out late next year. Not that you shouldn't go for Vista now, but that fact might affect your decision in terms of OEM or retail.
Also, how can I determine the voltage of the ram I need? I'm browsing newegg and some of the stuff I'm seeing is 1.9V and higher, but CPUZ says the stuff I have now is running at 1.8V.
I am not sure what you mean. The biggest headache you have regarding RAM is just compatibility. You shouldn't be worrying about voltage, since all mobos should be able to support a wide range RAM voltage. When you buy the RAM, it should have the specs on the box, including the recommended RAM timings as well as recommended voltage. Oh and I often notice a slight discrepancy between CPU-Z and my BIOS readings myself.
But once you decide on the RAM, troll the anandtech forums as well as the Newegg community to see if it has any issues with your mobo. Normally, the most popular brands (like Kingston) seem to do OK with most mobos. But yes, you could do with a RAM upgrade.
Is my CPU OK? I was just talking to a friend and he seemed to think my CPU was my biggest bottleneck, but I'm not so sure.
You plan to primarily game, correct? Then your CPU is
more than OK.
I was looking at THIS LCD. Does anyone have any kind of opinions or suggestions on LCD monitors?
You want a 22'' LCD? From what I understand, the VX2255wm by Viewsonic is the best in that class. I have the VX2235, and am merely satisfied, but apparently the VX2255wm improves on its predecessor immensely.
Anyway, here is the best resource for LCD monitors:
http://forums.anandtech.com/messageview.aspx?catid=31&threadid=2049206&enterthread=yYou can also ask questions, and the guy will assist you.
Here is a website where you can look at direct head to head comparisons of LCDs under various tests (gaming, color etc)
http://www.digitalversus.com/ Also, they have some informative reviews. The LCDs are listed under "Screens".