Tech Blackhole: Where I have been living

[OmnipotentKiwi]

Alright, it's that time of year (well, it comes a little early this year since my motherboard is possibly bad on my comp) where I might upgrade my computer. However, I have a nasty habbit of not following the tech trends when I can't afford stuff, because it just makes me want to spend money I do not have.

Anyhow, my main concern is the motherboard. Since it is distinctly possible mine is bad, and is unfortunately the one part I can't return in my computer, it is very likely I will need to replace it. My main concerns for a motherboard at this point is:
1. Upgradability (If that is a word)
2. Performance
3. Tweakability

My current system specs which will need to be supported by the motherboard are:
P4 2.2Ghz
2 512MB Sticks of Mushkin High Performance Black CAS222
Western Digital "J" Hard Drive 120GB
Sound Blaster Audigy

It's literally been probably 6 months since I've checked up on mobo technology advances. I know a little about the new i875P, but that is about it. Any suggestions would help.