Just made my first computer upgrade, adding 8gb of RAM to make it 12gb. I know I will never need that much, but 4gb was to little so I bought a combo of 2x4.
I also know RAM is the easiest thing to install, but I feel so proud. :D
Gonna go with Intel
Just my two cents, but if you're on a budget (and with only $600 I'd say you are) I'd suggest AMD. I'm currently running an AMD Phenom + AMD Radeon 6770 and it works really well and was cheap to. I'm no computer expert though. AMD has been better in my eyes ever since their drivers were sorted out. :P
If I was to make a comparison I'd say AMD is like homemade cooking and Intel is like fancy restaurant food. xD