There was another interesting point that said CPUs and RAM in white box (non-OEM) machines was less reliable than brand name systems. I struggle to see how a CPU would be less reliable, but that was part of the analysis. I'm not sure that would stop me from purchasing my own parts in the future, but it is something to keep in mind. Perhaps you should burn in the machine as soon as you can to allow for a parts return if you have issues.
I agree. My guess is not that CPUs destined for branded machines are inherently any more reliable, but that it's the quality control process that makes the difference. Or, more simply, that I suspect the same percentage of CPUs fail irrespective of destination, but that brand names ensure most failures occur before the kit is bought by customers.
Semper in excretia, suus solum profundum variat