just to throw some water in the works, my mobo only supports 2 cards 0.o
is a separate rig now worthwhile? I'm stuck at a $500 budget remember
maybe a new mobo for my computer that supports quad and my current CPU ect will be beneficial, any suggestions? I can add cards ect later

Unless you really can't have anything outside of your casing, you might want to look at the cheaper alternative of using a riser + extension cables.